The Kenyan High Court has approved the use of military force to restore order, following days of anti-tax protests.

More than 20 people have reportedly been killed in the nationwide protests that are largely led by young people opposed to government plans to increase taxes.

Armoured military vehicles patrolled streets in the capital, Nairobi, yesterday as police fired tear gas to disperse protesters, who had threatened to storm the presidential palace.

A judge said that the military deployment was critical to protect government installations but gave the authorities two days to clarify how long the deployment would last, along with its rules of engagement.

The Law Society of Kenya, which had petitioned the court to order the army back to the barracks, said it "respects but disagrees" with the ruling.