A looming showdown is expected in the Kenyan parliament as citizens mobilize to stage a sit-in protest against the proposed Finance Bill 2024.According to a recent survey by Infotrak, an overwhelming 87% of Kenyans are opposed to the revenue mobilization measures outlined in the bill.
In response, citizens have taken to social media under the hashtag ‘Reject Finance Bill’ to organize a large-scale demonstration at the parliament building during the bill’s debate and vote next week.”Reject Finance Bill 2024.
Carry playcard, handkerchief and bottle of water,” reads a poster that has been circulating online, advising protesters to come prepared for potential police intervention. The organizers have instructed participants to gather from 12 pm on the day of the vote, dressed in black.”We shall gather to keep vigil as members of Parliament vote at 2.30pm.
IG Koome to provide police to protect us as he respects Article 37 of the Constitution: The right to protest and picket,” the poster states.The National Assembly’s Finance Committee has retreated to compile a report on the bill ahead of its expected tabling in parliament on Tuesday next week.
However, the organizers of the ‘occupy Parliament’ campaign are working to ensure their voices are heard as lawmakers debate and vote on the legislation.Aware of the potential for a police crackdown, the protesters have been advised to come equipped with placards, water, and handkerchiefs to deal with the effects of tear gas, should it be deployed.
The opposition ODM party has also taken steps to ensure its members of parliament are present during the critical vote. In a letter to all lawmakers, ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna directed them to cancel any outside engagements that would require them to be out of Nairobi during this period.
“You are further requested to suspend any other engagements that would otherwise see you out of Nairobi during this critical period,” the letter reads.The showdown over the Finance Bill 2024 is set to be a test of the government’s resolve as it faces a groundswell of public opposition to the proposed new taxes.
Kenyans are determined to exercise their constitutional right to protest and make their voices heard in the halls of power.
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