Kenyans in Nairobi are demonstrating against a proposed tax increase included in a finance bill headed to parliament. Dozens of protestors have been arrested despite ongoing demonstrations and plans for a sit-in outside parliament buildings.

Some notable figures that have been spotted in the protests include Jackie Matubia and Murugi Munyi.

Organizers say they have a constitutional right to peaceful protest, but police require notification beforehand. Permission for the Nairobi protest was not granted. Police used tear gas to disperse crowds, causing temporary business closures. Videos have shown youths proceeding their protests while inside police vehicles.

Following a meeting between ruling party members and President Ruto, some tax proposals were withdrawn. These include a 16% VAT on bread and a 2.5% annual motor vehicle tax on insurance.

Read also; Peter Salasya vows to vote against the financial bill (Video)

A proposed environmental tax will be amended to target imported goods only, aiming to support local manufacturing.

President Ruto previously defended the need for tax increases, arguing for financial self-sufficiency. Opposition leader Raila Odinga urged parliament to reject measures that would disproportionately impact the poor.