Kenyans Gen Z speaks out; a voice rised out into a peaceful protest. The protests started on June 18, 2024. In Peaceful demonstrations, the Gen zs’ were airing out their dissatisfaction with the government. They were calling upon the MPs to reject the finance bill 2024; however the Mps decided to amend the finance bill. This was against the voice of the Gen z which was ‘REJECT FINANCE BILL 2024, and to not amend it.
June 18th was the final stage of the bill which the MP approved. This provoked the youth to go on the streets; they stormed parliament and vandalized it, and even burned part of it to demonstrate their anger towards those MPs who voted Yes to pass the finance Bill. But fortunately on 20th June the President did not sign the Bill though all the stages had passed. This did not cool the Gen z for after 21 days the Bill will be officially active. They demanded it to be taken back to the Mps to nullify the bill.
The president had an online gathering with the Gen z on X (space x) where they addressed all their needs including the High cost of living, Youth unemployment, police brutality, political accountability, among others. Some of their demands have been met such as the president not signing the finance bill and also firing all the cabinet secretaries (ministers). The protestors continue to push for comprehensive reforms. The situation remains volatile and the need for constructive dialogue and tangible actions are on the way. The Gen z are protesting in 25counties out of 47 counties. This has paralyzed movements and vandalized of business. A lot of brutal killings have been recorded and injuries. The youth vowed to protest every Tuesday and Thursday until their demands have been met.
By Vicent Abigaba CMF
