10 Shocking Provisions in the Finance Bill You Didn’t Know About!

The recent protests in Kenya, widely known by the hashtag #RejectFinanceBill2024, have erupted in response to the controversial Finance Bill 2024 proposed by President William Ruto’s government. Our research at Kenya Gossip delves into the key elements of this bill that ignited widespread unrest among Kenyans.



The Finance Bill aimed to introduce significant tax increases on essential items and services, including internet data, fuel, bank transfers, and even sanitary towels. These proposals were perceived as punitive, especially in a country already grappling with a high cost of living. The government justified these tax hikes as necessary to raise an additional $2.7 billion in domestic revenue to manage national debt and budget deficits. However, many citizens viewed them as an unfair burden on ordinary Kenyans, particularly the youth.



Protests began on June 18, 2024, with thousands taking to the streets in Nairobi and other major cities. The movement was largely youth-led(GENZ,s), utilizing social media to mobilize support and spread awareness about the bill’s implications. Activists translated the bill into local languages and encouraged citizens to contact their representatives, expressing their dissent.



Despite initial amendments to the bill, it was passed by Parliament, leading to escalated protests and violent clashes with security forces. As the situation intensified, President Ruto eventually decided to withhold his signature on the bill due to its unpopularity, but the protests continued, with demonstrators demanding broader government reforms.



The unrest has highlighted deep-rooted frustrations with the government’s economic policies and perceived disconnect from the realities faced by ordinary Kenyans. As the protests evolve, they underscore a significant moment in Kenya’s political landscape, reflecting widespread discontent and calls for accountability.

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