Azimio Coalition Rejects Finance Bill 2024
In a decisive move, the Azimio Coalition has unanimously rejected the Finance Bill 2024, urging members to withdraw proposed amendments.
Coalition Stance and Parliamentary Meeting
Members of the Azimio Coalition addressed the press Monday evening following a parliamentary group meeting at the August House. The meeting, chaired by coalition leader Raila Odinga, saw robust discussions on the implications of the Finance Bill 2024.
Reasons for Rejection
Minority leader Opiyo Wandayi announced the coalition’s rejection of the bill after a thorough review of its provisions. He emphasized that the bill, in its current form, would exacerbate economic hardships facing ordinary Kenyans already burdened by inflation and increased costs of living.
Condemnation and Demands
Opiyo also condemned the recent wave of kidnappings targeting Generation Z protesters, labeling them as unjustifiable acts aimed at suppressing legitimate dissent. He demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all those detained.
Protests Amid Rising Tensions
Protests erupted last week over new taxes amid soaring living costs, with a major demonstration planned for Tuesday. The movement, largely driven by Generation Z activists, has gained momentum across the country, reflecting widespread public discontent with the government’s economic policies.
Continued Demonstrations
The “Rage Programme” entered its fourth day with peaceful protests in Nairobi led by Generation Z. Demonstrators gathered at strategic locations in the city, including Uhuru Park and University Way, where impassioned speeches resonated with the crowd.
Youth Mobilization
Following church services, youth from Nairobi gathered at Kenya National Archives to march against the Finance Bill. Waving banners and chanting slogans, they called for the bill’s rejection and highlighted its potential adverse effects on the country’s economy and social fabric.
Demonstrations and Unity
Youths marched through the city, unified in their resistance against the bill, waving placards and chanting songs of protest. Despite heavy police presence, the atmosphere remained peaceful, with organizers emphasizing non-violent resistance as a hallmark of their movement.
Police Oversight
Riot police monitored the peaceful demonstrations, ensuring safety as youths voiced their dissent. Authorities maintained a cautious approach, balancing crowd control with respect for the protesters’ right to assemble and express their grievances.
Blood Drive Participation
Ahead of Tuesday’s protests, youth responded to a call for blood donations, supporting fellow demonstrators. The initiative, organized by medical volunteers, aimed to bolster community support and solidarity among protesters.
Nightclub Protests
Entertainment joints across Kenya joined the “7 Days of Rage,” with DJs turning off music for anti-bill chants. Patrons, including activists and ordinary citizens, participated in symbolic gestures of defiance, underscoring their opposition to the government’s fiscal policies.
Tribute and Opposition
Revelers paid tribute to fallen protester Rex Kanyike Masai and opposition leaders reiterated their stance against the bill. They pledged continued resistance in parliamentary sessions and vowed to explore legal avenues to challenge the bill’s provisions.
Programme Continuation
The “7 Days of Rage” programme will proceed with scheduled activities until Thursday, including forums, panel discussions, and community outreach events aimed at raising awareness about the bill’s potential impact. Participants expressed determination to sustain momentum until their demands for economic justice and legislative transparency are met.
