In a turn of events that has left many Kenyans in shock, comedian Eric Omondi’s predictions about the fallout from high taxation policies under President William Ruto’s administration have come to fruition.
Speaking a year ago, Omondi warned of the consequences of overtaxing the nation, especially targeting online content creators who are mostly young people.
In his statement, Omondi proposed,
“This is my proposal: you tax these online media, tax these YouTubers, tax TikTokers. But before you think of taxing them, we will do one thing. And you will remember Eric Omondi, by the way. One day I will wake up and you will be extremely drastic.”
His words now seem prophetic as the country faces mounting unrest from the rejection of finance bill 2024 protest #RejectFinanceBill2024 and growing anti-government protest #RutoMustGo.
Omondi highlighted the large number of young people in Kenya who could be adversely affected by these policies.
“We have 55 million Kenyans. I keep telling you, Mr. President and Gachagua, you are two people. Plus your CSs hamfiki 20 people, and the entire government hamfiki 500 people. And out of the 55 million, 33 million are young people,” he stated.
Predicting potential protests, Omondi further said,
“We can decide, and constitutionally, the people wanaweza kuwatoa kwa hyo government. It is legal. The people can rise against the government.”
His assertion that “you can only push your people too far” has proven accurate as nationwide protests against high taxes proposed in the Finance Bill 2024 have erupted across the country and now anti-government protests are on going.
These demonstrations have seen thousands of Kenyans take to the streets, demanding the rejection of the finance bill 2024 and a better governance.
The youth, dubbed Gen Zs , have been at the forefront of these protests, echoing Omondi’s warnings about the frustrations and challenges they face.
The government, caught off guard by the intensity of the protests, was forced to withdraw the finance bill 2024.
As the situation unfolds, Eric Omondi’s words serve as a stark reminder of the power of the people and the importance of listening to their voices.
Also Read:“Until Further Notice”Pauline Njoroge Urges Gen Z To Halt Protests