Kenyans from diverse backgrounds and regions have taken to the streets to protest the Finance Bill 2024. Spearheaded by the #RejectFinanceBill24 campaign, demonstrators have voiced their opposition to what they perceive as burdensome tax hikes proposed by President William Ruto’s administration.
The bill, designed to raise approximately Ksh348 billion through increased taxes on Road Maintenance Levies and Export Levies among other sectors, has sparked widespread discontent. Protesters argue that these measures will place undue financial strain on ordinary citizens and exacerbate the economic challenges already faced by many Kenyan households.
The demonstrations, which began earlier this week in Nairobi, have now spread to multiple cities including Eldoret, Kisii, Nyeri, Nakuru, and Kisumu. In each location, crowds have gathered peacefully yet passionately, waving placards and chanting slogans demanding the withdrawal of the controversial bill. The sheer scale of participation underscores the depth of public concern regarding its potential impact.
“This bill will hurt small businesses and farmers,” remarked Jane Wambui, a protester in Nairobi. “We already struggle with high costs of living. These new taxes will only make things worse.”
Beyond urban centers, rural communities have also mobilized, emphasizing that the proposed tax hikes could stifle agricultural production and local industries crucial to their livelihoods. Farmers fear increased levies on exports could reduce their competitiveness in international markets, thereby threatening their income and economic stability.
Government response to the protests has been mixed. While some officials have acknowledged the public outcry and promised to consider amendments, others have defended the bill as necessary to bolster government revenues and fund essential services.
Critics of the bill have highlighted concerns about transparency in how additional revenues will be utilized and whether the tax burden is equitably distributed across all sectors of society. The debate has intensified as the country grapples with broader economic challenges exacerbated by global uncertainties and internal fiscal pressures.
As the protests continue to gather momentum nationwide, stakeholders from civil society, academia, and business sectors are calling for constructive dialogue between government representatives and citizen groups to find a balanced solution that addresses revenue needs without disproportionately burdening the populace.
The outcome of these protests remains uncertain, but the determination of Kenyans to safeguard their economic interests and hold their leaders accountable signals a vibrant democracy in action. The coming days will likely see further developments as both sides navigate the complexities of fiscal policy and public sentiment.
In the meantime, streets across Kenya echo with the voices of citizens united in their demand for a fair and just financial framework that supports national development while safeguarding the welfare of all Kenyans.
