‘Occupy Parliament’ songs in Mombasa street
The #OccupyParliament protests in Mombasa County entered its second day on Wednesday as residents took to the streets to express their discontent with the Finance Bill 2024, currently under discussion in Parliament.
Protestors’ Demands
Armed with chants and placards, the residents walked along the streets of Mombasa, urging Members of Parliament to reject the contentious bill. Despite the rainy weather, the protestors remained undeterred, calling on legislators to heed their demands.
Meeting Points
A section of Mombasa residents gathered from 8:00 am at three scheduled grounds: Pembe za Ndovu, Mwembe Tayari, and Makadara Grounds. The protestors were determined to make their voices heard and push for the rejection of the Finance Bill.
Police Response
A contingent of police officers dispatched to Mombasa’s Central Business District managed the protests. Clashes ensued as the police dispersed the protestors using tear gas. The confrontations between the police and protestors marked a tense moment in the ongoing demonstrations.
Continuation of Protests
Despite the clashes, the protests are set to continue. Posters shared online indicate that the #OccupyParliament protests will also take place in other counties, including Meru, Eldoret, Laikipia, Nakuru, and Nyeri.
Parliamentary Debate
Members of Parliament are expected to debate the Finance Bill 2024 during its Second Reading on Wednesday. The outcome of this debate will determine the next steps, with a vote scheduled for Thursday to either reject or pass the bill.
Impact of the Protests
The protests in Mombasa and other parts of the country reflect growing discontent among Kenyans regarding the Finance Bill 2024. The bill’s provisions have sparked public outrage, leading to widespread demonstrations calling for its rejection.
Government Response
The government is closely monitoring the situation, deploying security forces to maintain order. The clashes between protestors and police highlight the tense nature of the protests and the need for peaceful resolution.
Future of the Protests
As the #OccupyParliament protests continue, the focus remains on the outcome of the parliamentary debate. Kenyans are eagerly awaiting the decision of their elected representatives regarding the Finance Bill 2024.
