Parliament on Fire as Protesters Storm Building

A section of Parliament buildings was on Tuesday afternoon engulfed in flames.

Plumes of smoke filled the sky as protestors breached police barricades and stormed the complex. The fire reportedly began on the third floor of the National Council of Provinces building, rapidly spreading to encompass office spaces and the gymnasium. Flames eventually reached the National Assembly, causing significant damage to both the new and old structures, including offices and gymnasiums. Fortunately, initial reports indicate that important works of art and historical artefacts within the complex were spared.

Chaos erupted as protestors overwhelmed law enforcement guarding the parliament buildings. Individuals were seen fleeing for safety amidst the confusion, while police struggled to contain the situation. Authorities prioritized the evacuation of Members of Parliament (MPs), ushering them to safety through an underground tunnel or sheltering them in the basement until evacuation was possible. Journalists on the scene reported that some MPs became overwhelmed during the evacuation, requiring assistance from police. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Police officers resorted to gunfire as protesters breached security barriers near parliament, injuring many protestors and tragically claiming the life of one. This use of force has drawn swift condemnation from the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) which emphasises the need for justice and accountability for the victims.