WEB DESK: Yielding to public protests against additional taxes in Kenya, President William Ruto has declined to sign the Finance Bill.
Yesterday, protesters opposing the additional taxes in the Finance Bill attempted to enter the Parliament building, resulting in clashes with the police that left at least 23 people dead and dozens injured.
Moreover, in a televised address to the nation, Kenyan President William Ruto stated that the people of Kenya have clearly expressed their rejection of this bill. Therefore, he will honor their demand by refusing to sign it, and the bill will be withdrawn.
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He also mentioned that he would engage in dialogue with Kenya’s youth and implement cost-cutting measures, starting with the government.
It’s noteworthy that Kenya’s Parliament passed the amended Finance Bill and sent it to the President for his signature.
The Finance Bill included a $2.7 billion tax increase to alleviate the burden of IMF and other loans. Kenya was set to spend 37% of its annual revenue solely on interest payments.
