Kenya faces renewed political turmoil as the BBC documentary Blood Parliament links police officers to the fatal shootings of anti-tax protesters outside Parliament in June 2024. The exposé has reignited outrage just weeks before the first anniversary of the deadly demonstrations sparked by the Finance Bill 2024.
The documentary accuses specific officers of killing David Chege, Ericsson Mutisya, and Eric Shieni—three young protesters who opposed sweeping tax hikes, including a 16% VAT on bread and a 25% levy on cooking oil. Although some controversial clauses were later removed, the protests left over 60 people dead and many injured, cementing the events in public memory.
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo warned that the documentary could reopen wounds and deepen psychological scars among Kenya’s youth. She called for a parliamentary select committee to investigate the emotional toll and promote healing.
“It has created more anger. We are taking them back to a path they would rather not walk again,” Odhiambo said during a tense session.
Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie criticized the BBC’s motives, accusing the broadcaster of pushing a foreign agenda under the guise of investigative journalism. He questioned whether the film aimed to pressure Kenya over its military and trade arrangements with Britain, particularly those involving the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK).
“Is the BBC speaking as a mouthpiece of Britain’s government, or what is it doing?” Kiarie asked.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has investigated the June 2024 shootings, concluding 22 cases while others remain under review. Despite these efforts, the documentary’s release has intensified demands for transparency and justice.
Authorities have banned public screenings of Blood Parliament, drawing criticism over press freedom and government accountability.
As Kenya approaches the anniversary of its deadliest civil protest, the film has reignited painful memories and unresolved debates about truth, justice, and the balance between sovereignty and scrutiny.
