A fierce political clash has erupted in Kenya over the controversial Finance Bill 2024, with leaders aligned to President William Ruto's Kenya Kwanza coalition denouncing calls to oust Members of Parliament who supported the bill.
The legislative tussle comes amid a wave of youth-led protests, driven by discontent with proposed tax measures.
Leading the charge, Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot has sharply criticised opposition legislators from the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition for opposing the bill. Speaking in Kericho County, Cheruiyot urged MPs who voted in favour to stand resolute and not succumb to intimidation as the bill heads to the committee stage for amendments.
"Those MPs who voted in favour of the Finance Bill, let no one threaten you. You stood with the future of this country, ensuring our young people will not face the same debt battles we are grappling with now. You are laying a strong foundation for a self-reliant nation," asserted Cheruiyot.
Echoing Cheruiyot's sentiments, Nandi Senator Samson Cherarkey also addressed the fallout from the National Assembly's vote to advance the Finance Bill 2024 to the Committee of the Whole House.
He implored opposition leader Raila Odinga to rally his members in support of the bill, citing gratitude for President Ruto's support of Odinga’s bid for the AU Commission.
"We are asking Raila to show respect and gratitude. We need these taxes to fund crucial initiatives, including your campaign for the African Union," stated Cherarkey.
The outspoken senator also accused the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition of funding the nationwide protests that erupted on Tuesday and Thursday. However, reports suggest that the demonstrations are neither organised nor funded by any political party.
Instead, a bold new generation of young Kenyan protesters has taken to the streets, forcing the government to reconsider some of its unpopular tax proposals. What began as outrage on TikTok over the finance bill has evolved into a widespread revolt, unaffiliated with traditional political structures.
Dubbed "Occupy Parliament," these protests have been coordinated and mobilised on social media, distinguishing them from those typically led by politicians. Organisers encouraged participants to don black attire, yet many turned up in ripped jeans and stylish hairdos, reflecting their vibrant individuality.
These youthful demonstrators, often referred to as Gen Zs – those born in the late 1990s and early 2000s – have shown up in droves, determined to ensure their discontent extends beyond hashtags and memes. The protests signal a significant shift in the country’s political landscape, with young Kenyans taking a proactive stance against policies they view as detrimental to their future.
The Finance Bill 2024, which includes a range of tax measures, has been a lightning rod for controversy. Proponents argue that it is essential for reducing national debt and funding vital government projects. Opponents, however, see it as a burden on an already struggling populace.
As the bill moves to the committee stage on Tuesday, where recommended amendments will be considered and voted upon, tensions remain high. The outcome will not only determine the fate of the bill but also test the strength and influence of the emerging youth movement.
