Breaking News: A section of the Kenyan Parliament has been set on fire by angry anti-Finance Bill protesters. They overpowered police officers who were barricading the building.
A truck parked outside was also set ablaze.
During the chaos, at least two protesters were shot dead as riot police used live bullets to disperse the crowd and prevent breaches of the parliament building.
This incident occurred following the passage of the Finance Bill 2024 during its third reading, with MPs voting in favor after Azimio MPs withdrew their amendments. A total of 195 lawmakers voted yes, 106 voted no, and there were 3 split votes.
Protesters who breached Parliament could be heard chanting “wasaliti, wasaliti (betrayers, betrayers)”.
Gunshots continue to echo around Parliament, with protesters shouting, “You are killing us, and we are defending you.” Nairobi region police commander Adamson Bungei has arrived at the scene.
Speaker Amason Kingi was reportedly safely evacuated in an ambulance, while MPs sought refuge in the Parliament basement away from the protesters.
Outside, Azimio MPs joined in the protests and could be heard chanting “Ruto must go.” They also confronted police, urging them not to harm the protesters.
Upon breaching Parliament building, some protesters were pictured enjoying MP’s lunch. Others are vandalizing the Senate Chambers.
More updates to follow
By Vivian K.