By James Baraka
Kenya witnessed a remarkable display of youth activism today as Generation Z took to the streets in large numbers to protest against the contentious Finance Bill 2024. The nationwide protests, organized under the hashtag “7 Days of Rage” #TotalShutdownKenya, have drawn significant attention and sparked widespread debate.
The Finance Bill 2024 has faced strong opposition across Kenya with critics arguing that it places an undue financial burden on the common Mwananchi.
Among the voices weighing in on the protests is the President’s daughter, who took to X, formerly Twitter to share her unique perspective.
“I stand at a very unique position regarding the issues facing my country Kenya as we speak. As a president’s daughter, I have no doubt in my mind, watching my father rise in politics for over 30 years, seeing his work and passion behind the scenes, that he truthfully holds the best interests of Kenyans at heart.,” Charlene Ruto said
“As a youth champion, I hear the cry of this generation and give my kudos that we not only care about current affairs but have a stand and are willing to raise our concerns. This is a game-changer. Let’s do it consistently, in an informed manner, with respect and honour. That is how we will be heard. May we dwell in unity, peace and liberty. A way will be made,” she added.
Her comments have however sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, with her balanced view and call for respectful and informed activism receiving sharp criticism.
“Tell your father that it’s slippery, it’s not business as usual, we are jobless, and you are there being employed, in this country while your father is sending us to go work outside, we want to walk in Kenya,” Gavongi Fedha tweeted.
“You cannot arrive late to the party and receive a red carpet grand welcome. Your support is akin to a fish trying to ride a bicycle. It doesn’t make sense. Ruto is your father, so call him and tell him to drop the bill. If there is anything else, we will see it as a family comedy,” George Tsitati also tweeted
The # TotalShutdownKenya protests as earlier scheduled in the “7 days of rage” have seen thousands of young Kenyans march through major cities, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Kakamega among others demanding that the government reconsider the Finance Bill 2024 holding on to their firm stand of “Reject not Ammend”
As the protests continue, the nation watches closely to see how the government will respond to the demands of its younger generation.
The outcome of this standoff could have significant implications for Kenya’s political landscape and the future of youth engagement in governance.
For now, the streets are alive with the voices of a generation determined to shape their destiny. The # TotalShutdownKenya movement underscores the power of informed and passionate activism, demonstrating that the youth of Kenya are a formidable force in the nation’s ongoing narrative.