Azimio Considers ICC Petition to Address Alleged Human Rights Violations

The Anti-Finance Bill protests in Kenya have resulted in escalating violence leading to fatalities and injuries.

What began as peaceful demonstrations against proposed tax increases in the Finance Bill 2024 has devolved into chaos with protesters storming government buildings including the Senate and National Assembly. Azimio La Umoja has taken a firm stance against the bill, arguing that the proposed taxes would impose an unbearable burden on ordinary Kenyans. They have called on Members of Parliament to reject the bill outright and have commended those who have withdrawn contentious amendments.

However, Azimio insists that the entire Finance Bill must be withdrawn before any further discussions can take place. Following the recent fatalities, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has threatened to take the issue to the International Criminal Court (ICC), accusing atrocities against the citizens of Kenya. The opposition vows to meticulously document each case in a bid to seek justice on an international platform. Musyoka has also highlighted ongoing cases of abductions, particularly of students who have reportedly been terrorized and indoctrinated.

The party views these incidents as crucial evidence for their potential case at the ICC, aiming to hold those responsible accountable for the violence and loss of life during the protests. As demonstrations spread across various counties, concerns mount regarding the police's brutal handling of the situation. Protesters have breached key government infrastructure, and law enforcement has struggled to manage the demonstrations effectively. The apparent lack of a comprehensive strategy to address the protests has raised questions about the preparedness and efficacy of the police force.

Meanwhile, Rarieda MP and constitutional lawyer Otiende Amollo has introduced a new bill aimed at repealing the controversial tax legislation that President William Ruto had previously returned to Parliament. This proposed bill seeks to nullify each clause of the Finance Bill (2024) and, in the event it has already been enacted under Article 115 of the Constitution, revoke every section of the Finance Act (2024). The move comes after President Ruto rejected the Finance Bill, 2024, and sent it back to the National Assembly with recommendations for its deletion.

This decision was reportedly made in response to widespread concerns expressed by Kenyan citizens. Following this action, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula officially notified Members of Parliament about the President's memorandum and referred the matter to the Committee of Finance and National Planning. The committee, under the leadership of Molo MP Kimani Kuria, is now tasked with preparing a comprehensive report on the issue. This report is expected to be presented when the House reconvenes from its short recess on July 23. Subsequently, the House will have a 21-day period to deliberate on and consider the findings of the report.

“I believe that the route of repeal on the same day that the Finance Bill would become law pursuant to Article 115(6), lends itself to reason, logic and the constitution more than the alternatives proposed,’’ Otiende said.