As Kenyans grapple with the tragic aftermath of the Finance Bill 2024 protests, many are sharing harrowing stories of their experiences while opposing the proposed law, criticized for its punitive tax measures. Among these voices, a group of Generation Z protesters from Kitengela, Kajiado County, are relieved to have emerged unscathed, but are deeply disappointed by the violent and fatal turn of events.
Kerray Mildred, born in 1997 and on the cusp of Generation Z, expressed his mixed emotions regarding the protests. He was eager to participate in the demonstrations, driven by the shared goal of rejecting a law seen as detrimental to many Kenyans. Mildred recounted his participation in a smaller protest in the streets of Kitengela town, where the atmosphere was initially peaceful.
“Many traders were conducting their business as usual as protests happened,” Mildred noted, highlighting the contrast between the protesters’ cause and the everyday activities of local businesses. This juxtaposition underscored the protesters’ determination to voice their concerns without disrupting the community’s daily life.
Despite the peaceful intentions of many demonstrators, the protests across Kenya turned violent and, tragically, fatal in some areas. This stark reality has left Mildred and his peers disheartened. They had hoped to see their voices heard through peaceful protest, but instead, the events spiraled into chaos, overshadowing their cause.
Mildred’s disappointment is shared by many young Kenyans who joined the protests with the belief that they were exercising their democratic right to stand against policies they deemed unjust. The violence not only undermined their message but also led to a national tragedy that has left families mourning and communities shaken.
As the country reflects on the Finance Bill 2024 protests, it is clear that the youth, particularly those from Kitengela, are grappling with complex emotions. They are proud of their involvement and the unity they demonstrated, yet they are also deeply troubled by the violence that marred their efforts. Their experiences serve as a poignant reminder of the need for peaceful dialogue and the importance of addressing the underlying issues that drive such widespread dissent.
In the wake of these events, it is crucial for the government and policymakers to listen to the concerns of the youth and engage in constructive discussions to find solutions that address the needs and aspirations of all Kenyans. The Finance Bill 2024 protests have shown that the voices of the youth are powerful and that their call for change cannot be ignored.
