Kenya has a rich history of protests, dating back to its time under British rule and continuing through its post-independence era.
A significant step towards democracy occurred in 1991 with the introduction of multiple political parties.
However, the country faced violence in 2007 following disputed elections, resulting in the tragic deaths of over 1,100 people.
Currently, Kenya is witnessing ongoing mass protests known as the Kenya Finance Bill protests, identified by the hashtag #RejectFinanceBill2024.
These protests erupted in response to proposed tax increases by the Kenyan government. Since May 2024, younger Kenyans, particularly critical of these tax hikes, have spearheaded the demonstrations.
They utilized social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram to mobilize, translating complex legislative language into local dialects and employing AI tools like ChatGPT for education and coordination.
Additionally, protesters flooded political leaders with messages after publicly sharing their contact details.
The protests began peacefully in Nairobi on June 18 but were met with arrests. Although Parliament amended some contentious parts of the bill on June 19, it was ultimately passed the following day, sparking nationwide unrest and clashes with security forces.
On June 25, protesters escalated their actions by storming Parliament, leading to clashes that tragically resulted in at least 22 deaths and numerous injuries.
President William Ruto addressed the nation on June 26, announcing his decision not to sign the Finance Bill.
He declared that the bill would be withdrawn following an agreement with MPs from his party, signaling a significant response to the protesters’ demands.
The demonstrations were primarily driven by young people from urban centers and various ethnic backgrounds, occurring not only in Nairobi but also in 35 out of Kenya’s 47 counties.
This widespread participation underscores the effectiveness of urban areas as hubs for organizing and visibility in protests.
The protests highlighted broader societal issues, including urban poverty and inadequate public services that disproportionately affect city dwellers, despite Kenya’s ethnic diversity.
Despite these challenges, the protests demonstrated a remarkable unity across ethnic lines among young urban residents demanding greater accountability from the government.
The role of social media, particularly driven by Generation Z, showcased a shift in how young Kenyans engage in political activism, necessitating new approaches from Kenya’s leadership to engage with this demographic.
Looking ahead, the future of these protests hinges on continued government responsiveness and the resilience of the protesters.
Kenya’s complex electoral landscape, influenced by ethnic identities, further complicates the path forward for sustained protest movements.
In conclusion, Kenya’s youth have emerged as a potent force in demanding political change through these protests.
However, achieving lasting impact will require navigating numerous challenges and sustaining momentum amid evolving political dynamics and societal pressures.
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