This demonstration is part of a series of ongoing protests driven by various issues, including opposition to the Finance Bill 2024, rising national debt, high taxation, unemployment, and allegations of corruption within the Kenya Kwanza government.
The protest, initially peaceful, escalated when the demonstrators placed empty coffins in key areas of the CBD. One of the coffins, covered with the Kenyan flag, was a poignant symbol of their protest.
The presence of these coffins, a powerful representation of their grievances, attracted significant attention and quickly became a focal point of the demonstration.
The protesters, primarily from Generation Z, have been vocal about their concerns, particularly regarding the Finance Bill 2024. This bill, recently approved by some Kenya Kwanza MPs, has sparked widespread discontent among the youth.
They argue that the bill exacerbates the already burdensome taxation and fails to address critical issues like unemployment and economic inequality.
In response to the protest, the police swiftly intervened, removing the coffins from the streets. Some of these symbolic items were destroyed on the spot before being taken away by the authorities.
Despite the police's actions, the protesters remained resolute, determined to continue their demonstrations until their demands are met.
President Ruto has acknowledged the growing unrest and has expressed his willingness to engage with the youth. He recently stated his openness to discussions on platforms such as X spaces, aiming to address the issues raised by the protesters.
However, the youth have made it clear that they intend to keep the pressure on the government until tangible changes are seen.
Their methods, including the use of coffins, highlight the gravity of their concerns and their desire for substantial reforms in governance.
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