Young Kenyans are protesting peacefully against the over taxation reform that the government wants to introduce. Kenyans are fighting for their basic rights and a decent life, but the government has replied with repression and extreme violence putting at risk the life of those who want a better future. Sign the petition now and demand a Judicial Commission of Enquiry into the violence leading up to and during 25 June.
What’s the problem?
In recent months, the people of Kenya have faced increasing taxation, placing undue stress on families, businesses, and communities.
Already overburdened by the high cost of living, Kenyans have faced multiple tax hikes, including on salaries and fuel, since 2022. Despite widespread petitions from citizens and public interest organisations including Amnesty, the 2024 finance bill now approved by Parliament, seems set to create even more economic distress and inequality among Kenyans and especially those living in poverty and marginalised communities.
Frustrated with the lack of sensitivity to this, people have called for protests and taken to the streets to call for a better future for their families. The response to this has been forced abductions, mass arrests and intimidation of those who have spoken out.
Police in Kenya have been filmed shooting live rounds at peaceful protestors who attempted to enter parliament. 21 protestors have been killed, and several others have been injured in several towns across Kenya. This is a matter of utmost urgency. The rights and safety of Kenyan citizens are at stake and immediate action is required to prevent further injustices.
We call on the Government of Kenya and the police to exercise restraint and protect citizens’ right to protest, release all those abducted and currently detained and respect the roles of doctors, lawyers, journalists and human rights defenders.
What can you do to help?
Sign the petition now and demand a Judicial Commission of Enquiry into the violence leading up to and during 25 June.