Why today’s protests will be history in the making (details)

#Reject the 2024 Finance Bill is the rallying cry on everyone’s lips.

The public has overwhelmingly opposed the newly proposed Finance Bill from the start, and today’s demonstrations, on Tuesday, June 2024, promise to be unprecedented. Here’s why:

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1. Widespread Protests: Unlike typical protests confined to a few locations, today’s demonstrations will occur in more than 10 counties. At least 11 counties are expected to join in rejecting the Finance Bill. Below are the posters highlighting the counties participating in these protests.
2. Strategic Planning: This protest has been meticulously planned, led primarily by Gen Z. They’ve coordinated dress codes, meeting points, and even strategies to handle casualties during their peaceful protests.
3. Anonymous Message: Last evening, a message from an anonymous source circulated online, urging the Kenyan government to respect the rule of law and the right to protest. It warned of potential exposure of corruption and misuse of public funds if the Finance Bill passes. The message encouraged citizens to show up in numbers and continue rejecting the Finance Bill.
4. Presidential Statement: President William Ruto acknowledged yesterday that civil society has the freedom to protest. “Civil society is free to do what they want to do; we are a democratic country. Those who want to demonstrate can do so; it is their right. There’s no problem, but decisions have to be made by institutions.”
5. Media Coverage: CNN correspondent Larry Madowo announced that he would fly to Kenya to cover today’s protests, bringing international attention to the event.
6. Celebrity Support: Numerous celebrities have pledged to join the protests, inspiring many others to participate. Kenyan artist Juliani suggested bringing Bluetooth speakers to listen to music while protesting against the Finance Bill.
7. Legal Protection: Protesters will be protected under Article 37 of the Constitution, which guarantees their right to protest. They also have support from other high-ranking government officials and lawyers.

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These factors combine to make today’s protests unprecedented. #RejectFinanceBill is trending on Twitter (X), with people rallying and preparing to occupy Parliament and march in the streets. The public is united in their demand to reject the 2024 Finance Bill in its entirety.