Kenya Parliament Stormed By Anti-Tax Protesters; Part Of Building Set Ablaze

Kenya Parliament Fire: A part of Kenya's parliament building was set ablaze on Tuesday as thousands of people protesting proposed new taxes reportedly stormed the legislature. Earlier in the day, police fired live rounds at the protesters in Nairobi, the Associated Press (AP) reported. According to Reuters, at least five protesters lost their lives amid the chaotic scenes in the Kenyan capital.

Scenes from outside the parliament building showed the police being overrun and chased by protesters trying to breach the parliament compound. Police opened fire after tear gas and water cannon failed to disperse the crowds. A paramedic, Vivian Achista, cited by Reuters said at least 10 had been shot dead.

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Another paramedic, Richard Ngumo, reportedly said more than 50 people had been wounded by gunfire. He was lifting two injured protesters into an ambulance outside parliament. "We want to shut down parliament and every MP should go down and resign," protestor Davis Tafari, who was trying to enter parliament, was quoted as saying by Reuters.

"We will have a new government," they added. Several other cities and towns across the country also witnessed protests and clashes. The violence outside the parliament building took place as legislators inside approved a controversial finance bill that seeks to introduce new taxes.

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The bill will now go for a third reading by lawmakers. The next step is for the legislation to be sent to the president for signing. He can send it back to parliament if he has any objections. The protesters oppose tax rises in a country already reeling from a cost-of-living crisis, and many are also calling for President William Ruto to step down.

(With inputs from agencies)