Kenya has withdrawn several proposed taxes from this year’s finance bill following widespread public backlash.
The move by MPs was announced amidst clashes in Nairobi, where police used tear gas and water cannons against demonstrators protesting the new measures.
Originally included in the bill were a 16% tax on bread, increased levies on cooking oil and mobile money services.
President William Ruto, who has aimed to reduce Kenya’s substantial national debt since taking office in 2022, faced criticism over fears that the taxes would hinder economic growth and employment.
The decision to scrap these taxes, including those on motor vehicles and environmentally impactful products, was announced by Kuria Kimani, chairman of the parliamentary finance committee, during a press briefing attended by President Ruto and coalition lawmakers.
The reversal is seen as a response to mounting public concerns about the rising cost of living.
