Tag Archives: gen-z

Rising Tensions in Kenya: Public Outcry and Unrest Amid Finance Bill Controversy

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Kenya has been rocked by a week of heavy protests against President William Ruto’s proposed Finance Bill 2024, which aimed to raise $2.7 billion through new taxes on basic commodities, motor vehicles, and financial transactions. The widespread public outcry and violent demonstrations led to the bill’s withdrawal, highlighting the deep-seated discontent among the Kenyan populace. Despite this concession, protests continue across major cities like Nairobi, with citizens demanding more significant changes, including Ruto’s resignation, amid frustrations over the rising cost of living and lack of economic opportunities.

Thursday protests in Nakuru

The protests have exposed broader grievances against the government. The heavy military presence in response to the unrest has further fueled tensions, with reports indicating over 20 deaths, 300 injuries, and numerous arrests as police used tear gas to disperse crowds. Amidst this turmoil, President Ruto signed the Appropriations Bill into law, subject to an adjusted supplementary budget, to ensure expenditure on critical services. This move aims to operate under the Finance Act 2023, financing a Sh3.9 trillion budget for the upcoming financial year. However, the government’s plan to reintroduce the Finance Bill with amendments has not yet succeeded in quelling the unrest. Engaging in meaningful dialogue with citizens, particularly the youth who are at the forefront of these demonstrations, is crucial for moving forward.

Addressing the underlying economic issues, implementing transparent governance, and ensuring that future fiscal policies do not disproportionately burden the poor will be vital steps in restoring trust and stability. The Kenyan government must take concrete actions to address the grievances that have fuelled the protests, such as creating job opportunities, reducing living costs, and increasing government accountability. These measures would demonstrate a genuine commitment to addressing the needs of the Kenyan people and help to ease the current tensions.As the situation evolves, the government’s responsiveness and the public’s resilience will shape Kenya’s path toward resolving this crisis. It is essential for everyone to remain vigilant against misinformation and cheap propaganda that can exacerbate divisions and hinder constructive dialogue. Accurate information and open communication will be key in navigating this period of unrest and working towards a more equitable and prosperous Kenya. In these turbulent times, a collective effort is required to ensure that the voices of all Kenyans are heard and that the country’s leadership takes meaningful steps to address the root causes of the unrest.

References:

Reuters Kenya’s young protesters plot next moves after dramatic tax win

The Star Empty roads, closed shops: Gen Z scale down protests amid heavy military deployment
Kenya News Agency Scores Nursing Injuries Sustained In Protests

All Africa Kenya: President Ruto Signs Appropriations Bill Subject to Adjusted Supplementary Budget

The Impact of Digital Activism: Gen Z Protests Reshape Political Engagement in Kenya

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The recent protests in Kenya against the Finance Bill 2024 highlight a significant shift in political activism, driven largely by Gen Z. These protests, organized under the banner of “Occupy Parliament,” leveraged digital platforms and social media to mobilize widespread participation across major cities. Digital tools, including AI-generated content and crowdfunding, played a crucial role in spreading information and organizing logistics. This wave of digital activism marks a departure from traditional ethnic-based mobilization to issue-based activism, as noted by Job Mwaura, a postdoctoral researcher at the Wits Centre for Journalism. The spontaneity and grassroots nature of these protests underscore a new era of political engagement in Kenya.

Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has suggested that foreign powers might be influencing these protests, citing President William Ruto’s international stances on issues like Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and calls for global financial reforms. Mwaura’s claims highlight the complex interplay between local discontent and international politics. The digital activism fueling these protests demonstrates a sophisticated use of technology, with young Kenyans employing strategies like AI to educate the public and hacking to draw attention to their cause. This digital-driven movement has successfully transitioned from online platforms to real-world actions, compelling political leaders to listen and even amend parts of the Finance Bill before its passage.

To resolve the conflict, the Kenyan government must enact legislative reforms that address the economic and social grievances of the youth. Firstly, a review and possible amendment of the Finance Bill 2024 should be undertaken to reduce the burden of punitive taxes on young people and marginalized communities. Additionally, legislation that promotes transparency and accountability in government spending could build trust. Establishing a Youth Advisory Council to provide input on policies affecting young people could ensure their voices are heard in the legislative process. Finally, creating legal frameworks to protect digital activism and free speech can foster an environment where the youth feel empowered to engage constructively in political discourse. These measures can bridge the gap between the government and its youth, ensuring stability and progress while maintaining the momentum of positive political change driven by a digitally empowered generation.

References:

The Star Foreign powers behind Gen Z protests, Isaac Mwaura alleges

Nation Angry and unafraid: When Gen Z storm country’s streets

The Conversation Kenya protests: Gen Z shows the power of digital activism – driving change from screens to the streets