A significant number of Kenyans living in Washington, D.C. gathered outside the Kenyan Embassy to protest against the Finance Bill 2024.
This demonstration mirrors the protests occurring in Kenya, where citizens especially the Gen Zs are voicing their discontent over the controversial finance bill 2024.
They were all chanting in unison, “Reject the Finance Bill 2024” and holding up signs, the protesters in D.C. expressed solidarity with their families, friends, and fellow citizens in Kenya who are also protesting.
The Finance Bill 2024 has been met with a great opposition due to proposed tax increases and new levies.
The Finance Bill 2024 will make life even harder for Kenyans who are already struggling with the high cost of living.
The Kenyans in the United States of America amplified their voices to support those back home and demand that the Kenyan government reconsider these oppressive measures.
The bill was introduced by the Kenyan government earlier this year aiming to increase revenue to fund various development projects and service the national debt.
However, many argue that the tax hikes on essential goods and services, such as fuel, mobile money transfers, will make people more poor and lead to economic inequality.
Proud of you Kenyans out there
The Gen Z protest has now gone abroad. Kenyans protested outside Kenyan Embassy in Washington DC. pic.twitter.com/oVxWrX9sal— Dr. Ekuru Aukot (@EAukot) June 24, 2024
The Kenyans in Washington follow suits of the protests that have erupted in major cities in Kenya including Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru and Kisumu.
Demonstrators have clashed with police, who have used tear gas and water cannons in an attempt to disperse crowds. Despite the protesters chantings, “we are peaceful.”
Even though the government’s assurance that the bill is necessary for economic stability, many Kenyans remain unconvinced and feel betrayed by the leaders they elected.
Many expressed their reactions following the support they received from their brothers and sisters living in USA. Others urged the Kenyan anti-protest police to copy their counterparts in the US.
“Kenya police mnaona majuu vile wanalindwa Kimabossy? Yaani police anawangoja kwa gari wamalize shughuli.”
The government should try to find a solution that addresses the nation’s financial needs without placing undue burden on its citizens.