Protesters in Kenya have been reportedly shot dead and Nairobi’s parliament set on fire after a contentious tax bill was passed.
The bodies of five protesters were seen outside the parliament building in the Kenyan capital, according to the Reuters news agency, after police fired live rounds as the compound was stormed by demonstrators following the passing of the bill.
Thousands of people were protesting on Tuesday as they demanded politicians vote against new taxes proposed in the controversial finance bill.
But after it was approved, Reuters said the parliament compound was breached and fires were reported from within the building.
A paramedic told Reuters at least 50 people were also injured by gunfire during the protests.
Police sprayed a water cannon at protesters. Pic: AP
The bill will introduce new taxes, including an eco-levy that would raise the price of goods like period products and nappies.
A proposal to tax bread was removed after public outcry.
