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The recent Gen Z protests in Kenya have emerged as a pivotal moment, driven largely by opposition to the 2024 Finance Bill. These protests, distinguished by their heavy reliance on social media and technology for coordination, have included platforms like Twitter (X), WhatsApp, and Facebook, which have been instrumental in organizing and disseminating information among participants.
Significantly, the protests have led to the government retracting some contentious parts of the Finance Bill. Among the removed provisions were the 16% tax on bread and new levies on the transportation of sugar, financial services, and motor vehicles. This demonstrates the effectiveness of the protests in influencing legislative outcomes.
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Leaders' responses have varied. President William Ruto acknowledged the efforts of the youth, emphasizing their peaceful and non-partisan approach. He expressed a willingness to engage with them to address their grievances and collaborate on building a better nation. On the other hand, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki stressed the importance of peaceful and lawful demonstrations, indicating the government's commitment to maintaining public order while respecting the right to protest.
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These protests highlight broader issues regarding governance and economic policies in Kenya. The youth's activism, facilitated by digital tools, underscores a growing demand for accountability and meaningful change in the country's political and economic landscape.