New Delhi/Nairobi: The Indian High Commission in Nairobi has asked all Indians in Kenya to avoid areas affected by protests and violence, amid reports of five people being shot dead as police fired live rounds at demonstrators in Nairobi to disperse crowds protesting against a controversial finance bill.
The Indian High Commission in its advisory said:
“In view of the prevailing tense situation, all Indians in Kenya are advised to exercise utmost caution, restrict non-essential movement and avoid the areas affected by the protests and violence till the situation clears up.
“Please follow local news and Mission’s website and social media handles for updates,” it said.
Kenya is in the grip of nationwide protests against proposed tax hikes, that culminated in Tuesday’s “total shutdown” of the country, which turned violent.
Police fired on demonstrators trying to storm Kenya's legislature on Tuesday, with sections of the parliament building set ablaze as lawmakers inside passed a bill to raise taxes.
Police opened fire after tear gas and water cannon failed to disperse the crowds.
In a statement issued by activists, lawyers, and medical professionals, it was reported that at least five people were shot dead and around 31 were injured. Of these, 13 were hit with live bullets, four with rubber bullets, and three with launcher canisters.
Protesters say the bill would impose unaffordable tax rises on ordinary citizens and businesses already weighed down by the high cost of living.
The government has dropped some of the contentious proposals but protestors want the entire bill scrapped.
The bill initially proposed to introduce a 16% sales tax on bread and 25% duty on cooking oil.
There was also a planned increase in the tax on financial transactions as well as a new annual tax on vehicle ownership amounting to 2.5% of the value of the vehicle.
In response to public opposition, the government said it would drop these measures.