Komnas HAM Kenya Reports 39 People Died In Tax Increase Protests, Contrary To President William Ruto's Claims

Protests about the new Fiscal Bill in Kenya. (Twitter/@AmnestyKenya)

JAKARTA - The National Commission for Human Rights Kenya (KNHCR) reported that as many as 39 people died in anti-government protests regarding plans to increase taxes. KNHCR chairman Roseline Adede said their deaths were due to violent clashes between demonstrators and police in the East African country. "The data from our notes shows that thirty-nine (39) people were killed and three hundred-sixty-one (361) injured with respect to protests across the country," Adede said in a statement quoted by Antara, Tuesday, July 2. The Commission continues to strongly condemn the unwarranted violence and coercion committed against protesters, medical personnel, lawyers, journalists, and safe places such as churches, medical emergency centers, and ambulances, ” he added. This statement comes as most of Kenya's young generation prepare to return to the demonstrations scheduled for Tuesday, citing deep frustration and demands for government accountability amid the economic difficulties faced by many citizens. According to the state-funded but independent human rights supervisory agency, the death toll by region is as follows: Nairobi (17), Nakuru (3), Laikipia (1), Narok (1), Kajido (3), Uasin Gishu (4), Kakamega (1), Kisumu (2), Kisii (1), Mombasa (3), Siaya (1), Kiambu (1) and Nandi (1). The number of new deaths contradicted President William Ruto's statement on Sunday night, June 30, claiming only 19 people died in the protest. During a television interview, Ruto stated that the death was not due to him. However, security was increased after riots spread in Kenya sparked by the 2024 Financial Bill.

The protests resulted in widespread looting and property damage across the country. Ruto bowed to public pressure last week and announced he would not sign the controversial bill. Military vehicles and armored personnel carriers have patrolled Nairobi, and fully armed soldiers are helping police prevent chaos, looting, and vandalism.