FOLLOWING the nationwide deadly protests in Kenya, the country’s President William Ruto has bowed to pressure, declining to sign the controversial Finance Bill.

While addressing the nation on Wednesday, June 26, the President noted that he had reflected on the conversations regarding the bill and listened to the voices of the people.

“Having reflected on the continuing conversation regarding the content of the Finance Bill 2024, and listening keenly to the people of Kenya who have said loudly that they want nothing to do with this Finance Bill 2024, I concede, and, therefore, I will not sign the 2024 Finance Bill.

“Following the passage of the bill, the country experienced widespread expression of dissatisfaction with the bill as passed, regrettably resulting in the loss of lives, the destruction of property and desecration of constitutional institutions,” he said.

According to a Kenyan news organisation, Star, the bill has also been sent back to the Parliament and the President has proposed a raft of amendments to the bill.

The Parliament may amend the bill in light of the President’s reservations or pass it a second time without amending it.

However, if Parliament members amend the bill and fully accommodate the President’s reservations, the Speaker shall resubmit it to the President for assent.

But if the House does not consider the President’s reservations, it may pass it a second time, without amendment, or with amendments that do not fully accommodate Ruto’s reservations. This must have been supported by two-thirds of the members.

The ICIR reports that some Kenyan citizens protesting against the bill stormed the country’s Parliament on Tuesday, June 25, setting a part ablaze while lawmakers were in session.

The protest, according to Kenya’s medical association, led to the death of 13 persons.

Reports showed that at least 160 people were injured during the nationwide protest.