Is Kenya's Security At Risk? Protests Turn Violent Over Tax Bill, 5 Shot Dead

Kenyan President William Ruto has emphasized on Tuesday that security was his "utmost priority" following protests against a bill aimed at raising taxes, which turned violent.

Demonstrators attempting to storm the legislature were fired upon by police, resulting in at least five deaths, , as reported by India Today.

Protests Turn Violent Over Tax Bill, 5 Shot Dead

In chaotic scenes in the capital Nairobi, police were overwhelmed by protesters and were subsequently chased away as an attempt was made to breach the parliament compound. Damage inside the building, which was partially set ablaze, was later shown by Citizen TV.

Protests and clashes also occurred in several other cities and towns across Kenya, with demands for Ruto's resignation and opposition to the tax hikes being voiced prominently. In a televised address to the nation, it was stated by Ruto that the tax debate had been "hijacked by dangerous people."

"It is not in order, or even conceivable, that criminals pretending to be peaceful protesters can reign terror against the people...," he said, promising a swift response to Tuesday's "treasonous events." Police in Nairobi opened fire after tear gas and water cannon failed to disperse the crowds. Eventually, protesters were driven from the parliament building, and lawmakers were evacuated through an underground tunnel, according to local media reports.

Later on Tuesday, it was announced by Defence Minister Aden Duale that the army had been deployed to assist the police in dealing with a "security emergency" that had led to the "destruction and breaching of critical infrastructure." At least five protesters' bodies were counted outside parliament by a Reuters journalist.

The Kenya Medical Association reported that at least five people had been shot dead while being treated for their injuries, with 31 people injured in total-13 shot with live bullets and four with rubber bullets. The association called on authorities to establish safe medical corridors to protect medical staff and ambulances.