In Kenya, at least five people were shot dead by police, and a section of the Parliament building went up in flames as demonstrations against new tax proposals escalated. An angry crowd broke through police lines to storm Parliament in the capital, Nairobi, vandalizing the interior and setting parts of the complex on fire. The ceremonial mace, symbolizing the authority of the legislature, was stolen. To control the mob, the police opened fire, killing at least five people. In an address last evening, President William Ruto said all means will be deployed to thwart any attempts by dangerous criminals to undermine the security and stability of our country. He has deployed the military to quell the protests. President Ruto pledged a tough response to what he called violence and anarchy. Protests against an unpopular finance bill, which includes several tax rises, have been ongoing for days. But they escalated yesterday as MPs passed an amended bill. Hundreds were reportedly injured, including with rubber bullets and tear gas. At a cathedral in Nairobi, a medical camp had been set up to tend to injured protesters. Several countries across the world have expressed concern over the violence and urged calm.