Part of Kenya’s parliament building was on fire Tuesday after protesters broke through police to enter the building. Legislators had to flee the building through a tunnel after passing a new finance bill that introduced unpopular taxes, AP reported.
The demonstrators had called on the legislators to vote against the bill imposing new taxes as citizens were already suffering over the high cost of living. “We’re coming for every politician,” protesters shouted as they penetrated the building, according to AP.
Legislators who voted against the bill were able to walk out of the building as protesters didn’t touch them. The fire was later put out. At least three bodies were seen on the street outside the complex as the police opened fire. Officers also threw tear gas canisters at protesters who were being treated at a medical tent set up at a church near the parliament building.
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The Kenya Human Rights Commission said police officers who shot at protesters would be held to account. Fire also broke out in Nairobi City Hall and about 40 people are being treated in hospital, BBC reported Tuesday.
Kenya’s President William Ruto, who had been expected to sign the finance bill into law this week, had promised that he would address the concerns of the demonstrators.
