Muscat – Members of the Kenyan diaspora in Oman gathered in solidarity with citizens back home in a peaceful protest at the Kenyan Embassy in Muscat on Sunday.

The demonstration was organised to oppose a proposed finance bill, which many believe will impose overwhelming tax burdens on ordinary citizens.

As per media reports, more than 200 people have been arrested in the capital Nairobi since the proposed tax bill was announced on June 18.

The protest in Oman marked the first time such action was initiated by Kenyan expats in the sultanate. Eight individuals, including Mbarak Ahmed, Assistant Treasurer of the Kenyans in Oman Committee, spearheaded the demonstration. 

He emphasised the importance of the embassy as a venue, describing it as a “home away from home”, providing the right environment to raise their concerns.

“The bill has sparked significant unrest as citizens express their discontent with the potential financial strain it could impose. The purpose of our protest is to ensure that the voices of Kenyans, both in Oman and back home, are heard,” he said.

“We aim to push the message to have the finance bill rejected and fully amended. Our embassy has assured us that our concerns will be communicated to the relevant authorities.”