Opposition leader Raila Odinga has praised Gen Zs for leading the demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2024.
On Tuesday and Thursday, Gen Zs turned out in large numbers, taking to the streets to voice their opposition to the proposed tax hikes.
Raila took to social media to express his pride.
“I’m a very proud father today! Hongera sana to the young lady and all those who bravely stood up for their rights!” he wrote on X.
Gen Z (33%) and Millennials, who together make up more than half of Kenya’s population, led the protests.
They showed up in large numbers, holding signs and sharing live updates on social media under the #RejectFinanceBill2024 and #OccupyParliament to spread their message.
In the viral video, a young woman urged Raila to let the younger generation take the lead.
“Agwambo (Raila), this is a message: don’t come, please stay at home. We saw your efforts and what you have done for Kenya. Now let us fight for our rights,” she said.
Anti-Finance Bill Protests
The widespread nationwide Anti-Finance Bill protests took place in Nairobi, Eldoret, Nakuru, Nyeri, Kisumu, Nanyuki, Kisii, and Kakamega. All by Kenyans united to express their widespread discontent with the proposed taxes.
The world has also taken notice of citizen’s uproar, with hacktivists Anonymous warning President Ruto against mishandling the protesters.
Activist Boniface Mwangi defended Raila’s absence from the demonstrations, pointing out his long history of activism and current efforts to secure a position at the African Union.
“Raila has done this for over 40 years. We should be ashamed of ourselves for demanding more from him. He has given his best,” Mwangi said.
The government’s proposal to introduce new taxes has sparked widespread anger, with many Kenyans fearing it will worsen economic conditions.
Despite the government’s Finance Bill concessions, such as removing a proposed 16% tax on bread, the public remains unconvinced, demanding the complete rejection of the bill.
Voting for the Finance Bill is underway in Parliament.
Stay tuneed for more Finance Bill updates.
By Vivian K.