Police authorities have ordered the deployment of armed officers to the rural homes of several Members of Parliament (MPs) following unprecedented attacks by mobs during anti-tax demonstrations. Up to 20 MPs reported that their homes were targeted, with some losing property while others had their valuables spared. The attacks were linked to the MPs’ support for the highly contentious Finance Bill 2024.
Many MPs are now living in fear and are accompanied by heavily armed police when visiting their rural homes. However, there remains a significant concern about further attacks by angry constituents or goons. Police commanders are facing high demands for security, especially for MPs who voted in favor of the Finance Bill.
“We do not know how it will end because the MPs are demanding more and more security. This is also because we do not know how these demos or demands will end,” said one officer, who requested anonymity. Demonstrators also targeted National Government Constituency Development Fund offices, where many MPs have their offices.
From regions such as Gilgil, Meru, Molo, Bungoma, Kisii, Kilifi, Central Kenya, and even Nairobi, there is a widespread call for dialogue on the way forward. In addition to attacking homes, demonstrators targeted businesses linked to the leaders. Fears of further attacks have increased the demand for more security.
Some MPs are now avoiding visiting their rural homes due to the threat of violence. For instance, police were called to the rural home of Sirisia MP John Waluke after a group attempted to set it on fire. Waluke was not at home at the time of the incident on Wednesday morning. A guard at the home reported that an unknown number of people had raided the property and attempted to burn it down by pouring petrol around the compound. The watchman’s screams for help caused the suspected arsonists to flee.
Police arrived at the scene minutes later and found a plastic bottle used to carry petrol, a green rope, and a hat. No arrests have been made so far, and tension remains high in the area amid fears of more planned attacks.
The attack on Waluke’s home is among dozens targeting MPs who supported the Finance Bill 2024, stretching police resources across the country. Several MPs’ homes were vandalized in response to their vote for the Bill. President William Ruto later declined to sign the bill following persistent protests from Kenyans opposing the proposed taxes. The protests led to at least 15 deaths, Parliament being invaded, and significant property damage.