22 Jun 2024 | 08:46 AM UTC
Kenya: Further protests and strike actions likely nationwide through at least late June /update 3
Further protests and strikes likely across Kenya through at least late June over new finance bill. Potential for clashes elevated.
Further opposition protests and strike actions are likely nationwide in Kenya through at least late June. Activists, mostly youth, under the "Occupy Parliament" slogan, are opposing the government's new finance bill, which would result in increased taxes. Following widespread protests on June 20, activists have threatened to strike nationwide, calling for a shutdown on June 25. The strike may cause disruptions to various sectors such as air, road, and maritime transport, utilities, business operations, and healthcare services.
The movement escalated on June 20, with gatherings reported in Nairobi, Eldoret, Garissa, Isiolo, Kisumu, Nakuru, Narok, Nyeri, Uasin Gishu, and Viheri. Security forces deployed to contain the protests, using water cannons and tear gas, while reports also indicate the use of live ammunition. Clashes resulted in at least one protester killed and more than 200 injured; human rights advocates claim that Kenya police arrested over 100 protesters.
Further protests are likely nationwide, especially in urban areas such as the capital and Eldoret, President William Ruto's hometown. Likely gathering locations include government buildings, party offices, business districts, and main thoroughfares; in Nairobi, protests are most likely near parliament and the CBD. During the demonstrations, authorities will likely deploy an increased security presence in affected cities. This can involve road closures, checkpoints, and disruptions to cellular communications devices, causing localized transport, business, and communications disruptions. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Monitor developments. Avoid all protests. Do not attempt to move through protester roadblocks. Plan for disruptions to general and freight transport and possibly to communication services. Reconfirm the status of roads in the hours preceding travel. Heed instructions issued by authorities. If violence occurs nearby, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a safe, nongovernmental building.
The protests follow the passing of the controversial Finance Bill 2024 by the National Assembly on June 20. Ruto is facing increased pressure from international lenders to lessen its reliance on external borrowing. The bill would include a 2.75 percent levy on income for national health insurance and increased taxes on vegetable oil and fuel. The government had previously planned to include levies on other products of first necessity - such as bread, sugar, and cooking oil - but removed them after facing pressure from opponents.
