Kenya’s President, William Ruto, has decided to withdraw a contentious finance bill after intense protests resulting in 22 deaths, including the storming and burning of parliament on June 25th.

Mr. Ruto, in a televised address, acknowledged the overwhelming rejection of the Finance Bill 2024 by Kenyans.

He stated,

“Listening closely to the voice of the people of Kenya who have unequivocally rejected the Finance Bill 2024, I acknowledge their stance. Therefore, I will not endorse nor sign this bill, and it will be subsequently withdrawn. The people have spoken.”

The protests, largely led by young people, marked the largest demonstrations during Ruto’s tenure since his election in 2022. Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, he expressed his intention to engage in dialogue with the youth.

Despite nationwide opposition, the bill was passed by parliament on Tuesday, triggering the violent demonstrations. Protesters breached parliament, vandalizing its interior and setting parts of the complex ablaze. The symbolic ceremonial mace, representing the legislature’s authority, was also stolen.

According to Wanjeri Nderu of the International Society For Human Rights, the protests resembled a war zone, with reports of police using live ammunition even before breaching parliament.

Catholic bishops condemned the actions of security forces and urged police to refrain from shooting at demonstrators while appealing for peaceful protests.

The Law Society of Kenya sought international criminal investigators’ assistance in seeking justice for families, citing reports of soldiers engaging with protesters in parliament.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep sadness over deaths and injuries during the protests in Kenya, urging authorities to exercise restraint and advocating for peaceful demonstrations.