During a speech in Eladama Ravine, Baringo County, Ichung’wa criticized the youthful demonstrators, suggesting they are part of an elite group reliant on modern conveniences like iPhones and online taxi services to attend protests. He implied that their lifestyles reflect a disconnect from the bill’s real-world impacts.
“These young people who are out protesting do not fully grasp what the Finance Bill entails. They come from privileged backgrounds, using their iPhones and online taxis to get around. They are not the ones who will be affected the most by this bill,” Ichung’wa remarked to a crowd of supporters.
The Finance Bill 2024, which has sparked significant controversy, includes various measures aimed at increasing government revenue through taxation. Critics argue that the bill will disproportionately burden low- and middle-income Kenyans, potentially exacerbating economic inequalities.
However, Kenya Kwanza leaders maintain that the bill is necessary for the country’s economic stability and growth. They accuse the protestors of spreading misinformation and failing to engage with the bill’s content meaningfully.
“Instead of taking to the streets, these young people should take the time to read and understand the bill. It is essential for our nation’s economic health,” Ichung’wa added.
The protests, which have been gaining momentum in Nairobi and other urban centers, reflect a broader generational divide in the country. Many young Kenyans, who make up a significant portion of the population, feel disenfranchised by policies they believe cater to the elite and neglect the average citizen’s struggles.
Social media has played a crucial role in mobilizing these protests, with many young activists using platforms like Twitter and Instagram to organize and voice their dissent. The hashtag #StopFinanceBill2024 has trended multiple times, underscoring the youth’s determination to halt the legislation.
Despite the dismissive stance of Kenya Kwanza leaders, the protestors remain resolute. They argue that their opposition to the Finance Bill 2024 is grounded in a genuine concern for the country’s economic future and the well-being of all Kenyans, not just a privileged few.
“We are not out here because we don’t understand the bill. We are here because we do, and we see the harm it will cause to ordinary Kenyans,” said one protestor, who wished to remain anonymous.
As the debate over the Finance Bill 2024 continues, it is clear that the voices of Nairobi’s Generation Z will remain a pivotal part of the national conversation. Whether or not their efforts will succeed in altering the course of the bill remains to be seen, but their activism highlights a growing political engagement among Kenya’s youth that cannot be easily dismissed.
