The Kenyan Parliament descended into chaos on Tuesday as anti-finance bill protesters stormed the Parliament Building, leading to a dramatic evacuation of Senate Speaker Amason Kingi. The protests, which had been building momentum over recent weeks, culminated in an intense confrontation between demonstrators and police forces.
Around noon, protesters, who had gathered in large numbers around the Parliament, breached the police barricades set up to maintain order. The sheer volume and intensity of the crowd quickly overwhelmed the officers, allowing the demonstrators to force their way into the building.
Inside, the atmosphere turned tense as lawmakers, caught off guard by the rapid escalation, scrambled for safety. Many sought refuge in the basement as the protestors made their way through the halls of Parliament, chanting slogans and demanding the rejection of the controversial finance bill.
The situation escalated further when it became apparent that the safety of high-ranking officials, including Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, was at risk. In a swift and well-coordinated operation, Kingi was escorted out of the Parliament Building under heavy security and evacuated in an ambulance. Sources indicate that the evacuation was a precautionary measure, ensuring his safety amidst the chaos.
Witnesses described scenes of panic and disorder, with many lawmakers and staff members visibly shaken by the incident. “It was a terrifying experience,” said one member of parliament, who requested anonymity. “We could hear the protests getting louder and then suddenly, they were inside. We didn’t know what would happen next.”
The protests are part of a larger national outcry against the finance bill, which critics argue would impose undue financial burdens on the public. The bill includes provisions that opponents claim will lead to increased taxes and cost of living, sparking widespread discontent.
The Kenyan government has called for calm and has assured the public that the concerns raised will be addressed. However, the violent breach of Parliament has intensified the debate and underscored the deep divisions within the country over the proposed financial reforms.
As the dust settles, the focus now shifts to how the government will respond to both the immediate security breach and the underlying grievances driving the protests. With the finance bill still on the table, the coming days are likely to be crucial in determining the bill’s fate and the government’s approach to managing public dissent.
