Gov’t Shuts KTN News Amid Chaotic Finance Bill Protests
Standard Group’s KTN has reported government threats to shut down their operations. During live coverage at 4:09 pm, KTN announced the threats aimed at their Mombasa Road-based media house. The specific office or individual behind the threats was not disclosed. The threats followed KTN’s live broadcast of the Tuesday protests.
Despite the threats, SG affirmed their journalists would continue reporting and informing the public.
“We have received threats from the government of intentions to shut us down. We want to assure the public of our commitment to defend public interests and we shall not be cowed by any threats as we continue to inform the public of the events on the ground,” stated the news anchor.
The anti-Finance Bill protests escalated on Tuesday when some protesters breached Parliament. Authorities responded, resulting in casualties. Human rights organizations reported four deaths, though police had not confirmed these at the time of publication.
The Finance Bill 2024 was passed in the National Assembly on Tuesday, with 195 MPs voting in favor, primarily from the Kenya Kwanza faction. President William Ruto is expected to sign the Bill, which includes new tax measures such as the Eco Levy on imported finished goods.
Protesters oppose the new taxes due to the high cost of living in Kenya. Conversely, the government argues the need to collect taxes to fund development projects and build the country.
In Other News: 13 Kenyans Shot With Live Bullets During Finance Bill Protests – Amnesty International
Gov’t Shuts KTN News Amid Chaotic Finance Bill Protests