Nominated MP & Emmy Kosgei father Jackson Kosgei

MP Jackson Kosgei Rescued During Parliament Protests

Bishop and Nominated MP Jackson Kosgei recounted his harrowing experience during the Parliament protest over the Finance Bill 2024, where he found himself in a precarious situation, deserted by his colleagues as chaos erupted around him.

Deserted Amid Chaos

On Tuesday, June 25, as protesters gathered outside Parliament, tensions escalated over the Finance Bill 2024. The situation quickly worsened as crowds breached barricades and accessed the complex, leading to sections of the building being set on fire. Many politicians scrambled to find refuge due to the turmoil.

Scramble for Safety

Kosgei, a physically challenged legislator, found himself isolated and vulnerable inside Parliament as the situation spiraled out of control. During the chaos, at least five people lost their lives, and numerous others sustained injuries due to clashes with the police who were attempting to disperse the protesters.

Assurance Amidst Turmoil

In an interview with TV47, Kosgei described the tense moments he faced during the protest. Despite initially being left alone by his colleagues, Kosgei found solace in the unexpected compassion of the protesters themselves. A group approached him, recognizing him as a respected figure and assuring him of his safety.

“Well, my experience with them was that amidst their expression of anger, they showed a human face,” Kosgei recounted. “They came to me and said, ‘Mzee, we know you, we know where you voted, and we know you as a good man.’ They reassured me that they did not intend any harm towards me.”

Guided to Safety

Videos circulated online captured the moment when Kosgei’s supporters escorted him out of the Parliament building, ensuring his safe exit from the chaotic scene. Kosgei expressed deep gratitude for their actions, acknowledging that their intervention likely saved him from potential harm.

“So they said to me, ‘The question of where you voted and such is not an issue here. We want to help you because what might happen here may not be good for you,'” Kosgei explained. “They walked us out with my colleague Rose Museo, and we managed to exit safely.”

Personal Reflections

Reflecting on the incident, Kosgei shared his perspective on the genuine grievances driving the protests. He emphasized the need for political leaders to listen to and address the concerns of the people, understanding the frustrations that had led to such a dramatic expression of dissent.

“I saw that these are our children, and their anger, though intense, comes from genuine concerns,” Kosgei remarked. “I pray that their voices are heard and that this energy is not exploited for other purposes. It’s why the President listened to them and took action on their grievances.”

A Call for Understanding

Kosgei’s experience underscored the deep-seated frustrations among Kenyan citizens over issues such as the Finance Bill 2024. He urged authorities to engage constructively with the protesters’ demands and work towards resolving the underlying issues that had sparked such widespread discontent.

Reassurance to Kenyans

Following the ordeal, Kosgei took to social media to reassure the public of his safety and express gratitude for the outpouring of support and concern from fellow Kenyans.

“I am now home, safe and sound,” Kosgei wrote on his Facebook page. “I thank God for always making a way where there seems to be no way. Your prayers and support mean a lot to me.”

As the aftermath of the Parliament protest continues to unfold, Kosgei’s account serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by political leaders during times of civil unrest. His experience highlights the importance of dialogue, empathy, and decisive action in addressing the grievances of the people and fostering a peaceful resolution to contentious issues.