Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has confirmed receiving 45 patients following the anti-Finance Bill protests, with treatment and surgeries currently underway for those injured.
According to KNH, seven of the patients are female, all presenting with various injuries sustained during the protests. The hospital stated that casualties began arriving around noon.
“So far we have received 45, seven being female with different kinds of injuries,” a statement from the hospital read.
“Treatment and surgeries for the casualties are ongoing. We have had no mortalities from the demonstration so far,” the hospital assured through their official communication channel.
The influx of injured individuals coincided with a dramatic escalation of protests against the Finance Bill 2024. Earlier in the day, hundreds of demonstrators breached security barriers and entered Parliament Buildings in Nairobi. The unrest intensified after police reportedly fired on demonstrators outside the legislative complex, and protesters retaliated by setting fire to several police vehicles.
Moments prior to these events, Members of Parliament had voted to pass the Finance Bill, 2024, a controversial legislation that opponents argue will significantly increase taxes for Kenyan citizens.
The breach of Parliament’s security marks a significant development in Kenya’s history, as it is the first time protesters have managed to enter the legislative precinct despite heightened security measures.
The protests and ensuing clashes have raised concerns about public safety, police tactics, and the broader implications of dissent in Kenya’s political landscape. The government’s response to the demonstrations is under scrutiny, particularly regarding the use of force and the protection of public institutions.
