Protests persisted across Kenya, including in Nairobi and Mombasa, against a finance bill that threatens to raise living costs.

Despite President William Ruto’s announcement that he would not sign the bill following last week’s parliament disruption, demonstrators clashed with police who fired tear gas in Nairobi.

Many businesses shuttered amid fears of looting, and roads, including the main route to Mombasa, were blocked with bonfires.

In Mombasa, anger erupted with protesters torching vehicles outside a hotel linked to a shooting incident during looting.

While concerns linger that President Ruto might reverse his decision and sign the bill, some protesters are demanding his resignation, accusing him of governance failures.

Youth leaders leading the protests voiced concerns about violence instigated by infiltrators, prompting Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki to warn of planned criminal activities.

The unrest has claimed lives, with conflicting reports on casualties, the Associated Press has reported.

President Ruto has offered dialogue with youth and proposed austerity measures, but skepticism remains over his commitment to implement reforms amid economic hardship and public outcry over official extravagance.

Economists and human rights officials have called for a reevaluation of tax policies to support economic growth, amid rising unemployment particularly affecting younger generations.

Written by B.C. Begley