Kenya erupted in violence on Tuesday as protests against a proposed tax increase bill turned deadly. At least five people were killed and dozens injured after demonstrators clashed with police and stormed the country’s parliament building in Nairobi.

The violence began as a peaceful demonstration against the Finance Bill 2024/2025, which many Kenyans see as an unfair burden on ordinary citizens. As tensions rose, protesters attempted to breach the parliament grounds, leading to a confrontation with security forces.

Reports indicate that Kenya police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd, but some protesters managed to break through security barriers. In the ensuing chaos, gunfire erupted, with conflicting reports on who fired first.

Independent media outlets, including Reuters, reported seeing the bodies of at least five protesters outside parliament. The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) claims a higher death toll, stating that five people were shot dead while treating the wounded. The KMA further reported over 30 injuries, with at least 13 from live ammunition. They have called on authorities to establish safe corridors to protect medical personnel attending to the injured.

Following the violence, lawmakers managed to pass the controversial bill before fleeing through a parliament tunnel. The Kenya government has yet to comment on the events.

Adding to the national tension, internet services were reportedly slowed down. It raises concerns about a potential government attempt to control the flow of information.

The deadly clashes raise serious questions about Kenya’s political stability and the government’s response to public dissent. With tensions still high, it remains to be seen how the country will move forward from this tragic event.