The recent events in Kenya offer a stark reminder of the power of citizen activism and the importance of responsive governance. President William Ruto’s decision to withdraw a controversial finance bill after widespread protests demonstrates the potential for public outcry to influence policy, even in the face of initial government resistance.

Kenya’s 2024 finance bill aimed to raise taxes across the board, generating $2.7 billion to address budget deficits and reduce borrowing dependence. The proposed measures included a 16% tax on bread, a 25% duty on cooking oil, and increased levies on vehicle ownership, financial transactions, manufactured goods, and digital equipment. These sweeping changes sparked outrage among Kenyans, particularly the younger generation, who mobilised through social media before taking to the streets.

The government’s initial heavy-handed response to the protests, resulting in over 20 deaths, only fueled public anger. President Ruto’s threatening rhetoric, labeling protesters as “criminals” and promising a “full, effective and expeditious response,” further inflamed tensions. However, faced with unwavering public resistance, Ruto ultimately conceded, acknowledging that “the people have spoken” and refusing to sign the bill into law.

This episode highlights a crucial lesson for African leaders: democratic governance must prioritise the needs and voices of the people it serves. The contrast between Kenya’s eventual capitulation to public will and the tragic outcomes of similar protests in other African nations, such as Nigeria’s EndSARS movement during the President Muhammadu Buhari administration, is stark. It underscores the importance of responsive leadership and the dangers of suppressing dissent.

The Kenyan protests also shed light on broader issues plaguing many African nations: corruption, wasteful spending, and a disconnect between the political elite and ordinary citizens struggling to meet basic needs. The involvement of international financial institutions, such as the IMF’s loan conditions, adds another layer of complexity to these challenges.

 In Nigeria, similar grievances often become entangled in religious and ethnic divisions, hampering unified action against unpopular policies. The current economic crisis, exacerbated by currency devaluation and fuel subsidy removal, has led to unprecedented inflation. Yet, even organised labour’s efforts to protest these policies and demand increased wages have failed to garner widespread support.

This lack of unity among the governed allows leadership to implement potentially harmful policies without significant resistance. The situation is further complicated by the role of lawmakers, who often fail to adequately represent their constituents’ interests or provide effective oversight of executive actions. 

As we reflect on Kenya’s example, it becomes clear that citizens must find ways to speak with one voice against policies that negatively impact their lives. Nigerians should take inspiration from their Kenyan counterparts, who put their ethnic, religious and political differences aside to confront the authorities.

Lawmakers have a crucial role to play by scrutinising executive bills and asserting their independence. They should take their oversight functions seriously so as to hold erring, corrupt and inept government officials accountable to the people. In the long run, they have more to gain.

Despite his initial grandstanding, President Ruto had to come down from his high horse and make concessions. This is what leadership is about. Policies are as good as their potential to positively transform lives. However, when policies have the possibility of inflicting more burden on the citizens, common sense should prevail. Although President Bola Ahmed has a listening ear, having reversed some of his policies, more is desired to enable Nigerians, who voted him to power, to enjoy more dividends of democracy.

Finally, governments must approach relationships with international financial institutions cautiously, recognising that their prescribed policies often inflict hardship on citizens. The ultimate goal of governance should be to improve the lives of the people, not to satisfy external economic pressures at the expense of social welfare.

The lessons from Kenya serve as a powerful reminder of the strength of collective action and the fundamental principle that in a true democracy, the will of the people must prevail. It is a call to both citizens and leaders across Africa to work towards more responsive, accountable, and people-centered governance.