The recent protests in Kenya, predominantly led by Generation Z, have been sparked by widespread discontent over the proposed Finance Bill 2024, which introduces new tax hikes. The youth-led demonstrations have resulted in several deaths, with police using live ammunition and tear gas to disperse the protesters. The Kenyan Human Rights Commission has condemned these actions, calling for accountability and justice for the victims
The root of the protests lies in the economic challenges faced by many Kenyans, exacerbated by the government's push to increase taxes to reduce the budget deficit. The proposed taxes, which include levies on essential items like bread and transportation, have been seen as an additional burden on a population already struggling with high living costs and unemployment
The protesters were scattered during the protests using water cannons. Photo credits: Moses Muoki
President William Ruto's administration initially defended the tax hikes as necessary to curb reliance on external borrowing. However, the pressure from the protests forced the government to retract some of the most contentious provisions of the bill . Despite this, the Gen Z protesters have continued to demand further changes, citing corruption, poor governance, and unfulfilled promises by the government as ongoing issues
President William Ruto during an interview. Photo: President William Ruto. Source: Twitter
The protests have also highlighted the power of digital activism, with the youth leveraging social media to organize and amplify their cause under hashtags like #OccupyParliament and #RejectFinanceBill2024. This digital mobilization has drawn significant international attention, with foreign governments and organizations urging restraint and peaceful resolution.
The President claimed to have no blood on his hands during an interview on live national television. What bothers most Kenyans is his attitude despite what has been happening in the country. He says he is aware of the situation but constantly displays a lack of information and even a lack of remorse for the people who fell victim to the violence. He proceeds to call them criminals and financial planners. He claims not to have a hand in the issues faced by Kenyans and what the Gen Zs are citing as problems in the country. In an interview, he was asked about the jobless youths in the country and he proceeded to blatantly state that they were jobless even before he became president. It is difficult to defend his behavior during these pressing times. Kenyans have been left to question themselves, and some regret voting him in as the President of Kenya. Others have gone back to wondering whether His Excellency Uhuru Kenyatta was right about the choices they made during the election.
Regardless, in your opinion, is Ruto blameless?