Kenyan President William Ruto and Controversial Tax Bill

SOURCE www.npr.org
Kenyan President William Ruto refuses to sign a controversial tax bill into law following widespread protests that resulted in over 20 deaths. Activists plan to continue demonstrations calling for the president's resignation and amendment of the bill.

Key Points

  • President Ruto will not sign the controversial tax bill into law
  • Protests erupted across Kenya following the bill's approval in parliament
  • Demonstrators call for the resignation of the president and lawmakers who voted for the bill
  • Human rights bodies condemn police response during protests

Pros

  • President Ruto responds to public outcry by refusing to sign the finance bill
  • Acknowledges dissatisfaction and loss of life during protests
  • Vows to widen austerity measures instead of implementing new taxes

Cons

  • Over 20 people died in the protests
  • Police accused of using heavy-handed tactics including live rounds on crowds
  • Protesters demanding president's resignation and amendment of the bill