Ndii Clashes with Gen Z Over Finance Bill Protests

Economic Adviser David Ndii Responds to Protests

President William Ruto’s economic adviser, David Ndii, has fiercely responded to the Gen Z protests against the Finance Bill 2024. The demonstrations saw thousands of young Kenyans voicing their concerns about the bill and demanding accountability from the Kenya Kwanza government.

Allegations Against the Youth

David Ndii

In a post on X, Ndii claimed that many protesters are the children of former leaders who financially drained the country. He pointed fingers at past regimes and accused these youths of being ignorant about the bill they were protesting against. “Irony of these cool kids protesting Finance Bill they are clueless about is many are children of the plunderers who’ve bankrupted the State,” Ndii wrote. He mentioned that these individuals benefited from the corruption that plagued previous administrations.

Call for Reflection and Caution

Ndii advised the Gen Z protesters to reflect on the origins of the country’s financial woes. He suggested they look into their own families for answers. “You want to know where the money went? Look around you, visit your aunties, ask your parents,” he stated. He warned them to be cautious in their revolutionary efforts. “The country is going to change and you are welcome to join, but be careful where you throw stones,” Ndii added.

Online Backlash and Accusations of Class Warfare

Kenyans online quickly reacted to Ndii’s remarks, accusing him of attempting to incite class warfare. Many criticized him for his approach and questioned his loyalty to the Kenya Kwanza regime. One comment read, “The thing with you, class warfare worked once, now you think class warfare has a second charm with the younger folks.” Another critic highlighted Ndii’s association with the current government, saying, “Your efforts were watered down the very moment you joined a dysfunctional regime.”

Public Demands and Gen Z’s Resolve

The protests, largely organized on social media platforms, saw over 50,000 Kenyans joining an X space to discuss their grievances. They demanded the release of influencer Billy Simani and accountability from the government. Participants called out politicians for not fulfilling campaign promises and ignoring public demands after the Finance Bill passed its Second Reading stage.

Calls for Honesty and Accountability

Many Kenyans urged Ndii to push for the recovery of looted resources instead of blaming the youth. One comment urged, “You should stop whining David Ndii. We gave you the mandate. Why not advise the president to dictate the recovery of all looted resources the way he is dictating taxes. Be honest.” The sentiment reflected a growing frustration with the government’s perceived inaction on corruption.

The Gen Zs’ Commitment to Protest

Despite the backlash, the Gen Z protesters remain determined to continue their demonstrations. They vow to persist until the government acknowledges the people’s voice. Their resolve highlights a generational shift in political activism in Kenya, with younger citizens increasingly demanding transparency and accountability from their leaders.

A New Wave of Activism

This clash between Ndii and the Gen Z protesters marks a significant moment in Kenya’s political landscape. It underscores the generational divide in perceptions of governance and accountability. The young protesters’ determination suggests a new wave of activism that could reshape the country’s future.