First, it was the anti-Finance Bill protests. Fearless young men and women took to the streets of different towns all over Kenya. This uproar was not the typical Kenyan demonstration but instead a peaceful movement that fell victim to violence and brutality from police officers. The protests prompted Kenyan President William Ruto to withdraw the Finance Bill. However, this significant achievement did not come easily, resulting in the deaths of over 40 young and innocent youths, and over 300 people were hospitalized due to gunshot wounds. Peaceful demonstrators in the streets of Nairobi. Photo Credit: Moses Muoki.
Despite the rejection of the Finance Bill, many Kenyans remained unsatisfied. The response to the protests and the subsequent actions by the government fueled further unrest. In his first speech following the "Reject Finance Bill" protests and the brutal killing of many protesters, President Ruto showed no remorse, calling the peaceful protesters criminals. MPs who voted in favor of the Finance Bill were unmoved, supporting the president's stance and criticizing the protesters as mere content creators in harsh and verbal manners
Police throwing tear gas canisters at peaceful demonstrators. Photo Credit: Moses Muoki.
Post-Finance Bill demonstrations have continued daily, with different agendas emerging as the protests evolve. The once peaceful movement has seen infiltration by paid goons allegedly sent by politicians and other organizations, leading to increased chaos. The big question remains: How long will the demonstrations continue, and what are the gains or losses? Are the Gen Z protesters being heard, and if so, what actions are being taken? Is demanding the president's resignation a viable solution?