President William Ruto has expressed his openness to engage in discussions with youth protesting against the finance bill in Kenya.
On Sunday, June 23, young activists sought to block politicians supporting the bill from addressing congregants in Nairobi churches, raising their concerns to the public.
Youth demonstrations against the public finance bill, which introduces new taxes, continue. Last week, thousands protested nationwide, demanding its repeal.
Human rights organizations reported two deaths among young protesters and at least 200 injuries. On June 23, about twenty youths gathered at Nairobi’s Holy Family Basilica, where student Kanana Koome read a statement condemning the burdensome taxes and urging Christians to scrutinize the bill.
In Nyahururu, 200 kilometers north of Nairobi, President Ruto attended Sunday service and, addressing the protests for the first time, said, “We will engage in dialogue with you to understand your concerns and work together as a nation.”
Protesters have planned further mobilizations for Tuesday and Thursday next week.