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NCIC supports Gen Z protests against Finance Bill

Mombasa residents protest against the Finance Bill, 2024 on June 20, 2024. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein, EV)

By Yunis Dekow | Monday, June 24, 2024

Gen Zs have demonstrated a remarkable display of protest, particularly through the #OccupyParliament and #RejectFinanceBill campaigns, pressuring leaders, including President William Ruto, to reject the proposals.

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has welcomed Gen Z's decision to participate in national issues by expressing their stand on the Finance Bill 2024 through peaceful demonstrations.

Last week, youths across the country took to the streets in Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu, Garissa, and other counties to protest against the bill. The protests are continuing this week.

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The NCIC acknowledged young people's efforts in a statement on Monday, stating, "In doing so, they are not only expressing their democratic rights but are also demonstrating their patriotism and passion for justice."

Chairperson Samuel Kobia urged them to maintain peace and decorum in all their planned demonstrations throughout this week and beyond.

The Gen Z have demonstrated a remarkable display of protest, particularly through the #OccupyParliament and #RejectFinanceBill campaigns, pressuring leaders, including President William Ruto, to reject the proposals. The bill is criticised for burdening Kenyans while expanding government spending.

These demonstrations have led to confrontations between the police and peaceful protesters, with two people dead so far: 29-year-old Rex Masai and 21-year-old Evans Kiratu. Hundreds have been injured and arrested but released later, while some people have been abducted and held for hours, allegedly by the police.

The NCIC further welcomed President Ruto's assurance to listen to the concerns of the Gen Z protesters.

"These are citizens who constitute a large per cent of the population and their voice is critically important in seeking solutions to national issues, including the Finance Bill 2024," Kobia said. "We urge all other government leaders to follow President Ruto's cue and listen to the youth."

The commission has also called upon the government, especially the National Police Service and other security organs, to refrain from using force against peaceful demonstrators.

"These demonstrators are clearly protected by the constitution in so far as peaceful demonstration and picketing are concerned," Kobia noted.

"And to all Kenyans, let's remain peaceful and respectful of each other's views even as we seek solutions to the prevailing current situation in our country," he added.

The bill is now in its final stage and set for review by the committee of the whole House on Tuesday for its Third Reading, where a detailed examination and voting on proposed amendments will occur.

During the second reading, 204 legislators voted in favour while 115 opposed it, despite widespread countrywide demonstrations.