"Hiyo Ni Harrasment" Video Of Nairobi Woman Being Forced To Open Her Bag Amidst Protests Irks Kenyans

In Nairobi, a video showing police searching a woman's bag during protests has caused upset among Kenyans. The protests were against the Finance Bill 2024, which many fear could lead to higher taxes.

The incident took place near Kenya National Archives, where demonstrators gathered wearing black clothes to show their opposition to the bill. 

In the video, a woman in black is seen opening her backpack for police officers, who then ask her to leave the area. This footage quickly spread on social media, with people criticizing the police's actions as harassment and a violation of the woman's rights.

Kenyan MPs are set to discuss the Finance Bill 2024 today. The bill has sparked concern among citizens who worry it could bring tougher financial burdens. 

In response, hundreds of people had planned to gather outside the National Assembly to pressure lawmakers into rejecting the bill, which they call oppressive.

Before the protests, Nairobi's police chief, Adamson Bungei, had already rejected plans for demonstrations in the city center. 

He said organizers did not follow the correct procedures for obtaining a permit, leading to a standoff between police and protesters.

On social media, reactions to the video varied. Some users expressed anger and called the police action unacceptable. They questioned why a woman was searched by male officers instead of female officers. 

Others used hashtags like #rejectfinancebill2024 to show their support for the demonstrators and their opposition to the bill.The Finance Bill 2024 has been a contentious issue in Kenya, with debates about its potential impacts on ordinary people's lives.