Ruto: Anti-Finance Bill protests treasonous

A protester lobs back a teargas canister at police in Nairobi during a nationwide strike to protest against tax hikes. [AFP]

President William Ruto has condemned Tuesday’s anti-Finance Bill 2024 protests in Nairobi, labelling them as acts of treason.

Speaking at a press conference held at State House, on June 25,  Ruto issued a stern warning to those behind the violent demonstrations.

"I hereby put on notice the financiers, organisers, orchestrators, and abettors of the violence and anarchy witnessed today," said Ruto.

 "It is unacceptable that criminals posing as peaceful protesters can terrorise the people, their elected representatives, and our constitutional institutions and expect impunity," he added.

The protests saw demonstrators breach Parliament's security, prompting MPs to seek refuge in the basement parking area.

Reports indicate police fired live bullets as protestors entered Parliament, resulting in injuries and the torching of a police vehicle outside.

Nairobi Police boss Adamson Bungei confirmed serious injuries among the protestors, with sections of Parliament buildings also set ablaze during the chaotic scenes.

The events unfolded following two weeks of demonstrations dubbed 'Occupy Parliament', sparked by public outrage over proposed tax increases in the Finance Bill 2024.

In response, President Ruto vowed to uphold the country’s constitutional order and ensure the safety of its citizens.

 He described the day's events as an unprecedented assault on the country’s democracy, rule of law, and institutional integrity.

"I assure the nation that the Government has mobilised all necessary resources to prevent such incidents in the future," he affirmed.

He commended security officers for their efforts in defending the country and directed all national security organs to prevent any further attempts to destabilise the country.

 "Our national discourse must uphold constitutionalism, the rule of law, and respect for institutions," he noted.

 "It is unacceptable that criminals, under the guise of peaceful protest, can terrorise our people and challenge law enforcement with impunity," he added.

 "I am duty-bound to uphold and defend Kenya’s constitution, which asserts that sovereign power belongs to the people."