Kenyan youth are protesting against the 2024 Finance Bill introduced by President William Ruto and his cabinet. These measures are theoretically intended to address the substantial public debt, currently standing at 68% of GDP, and fall within the IMF’s guidelines for achieving economic stability. However, the allocation of these funds is highly controversial. Additionally, the impact on an already heavily taxed population is seen as devastating and will likely widen the socio-economic divide among Kenyans.

Generation Z has mobilised through social media, especially TikTok, with the #occupyparliament movement, marking an unprecedented wave of young and well-informed activism in Kenya. This mass movement eventually moved to the streets and was met with violent repression from the government. This initial protest began as a protest against the 2024 Finance Bill, but has now morphed into a mass movement demanding the resignation of William Ruto.

The Finance Bill has faced intense criticism, with many arguing it will significantly increase living costs. Human rights lawyer Hussein Khalid underscored the protesters’ determination, stating, “We must make sure our concerns are heard and stand together with our fallen comrades who have been killed, demanding justice for them.” Conversely, the government justifies its actions by claiming “credible intelligence that organised criminal groups are planning to take advantage of the ongoing protests,” according to Head of Police Douglas Kanja. Furthermore, these brutal actions are backed by the courts in Kenya, leading to at least five deaths from gunshot wounds and numerous injuries, including 13 from live bullets.

Furthermore, the Kenyan government, led by President Ruto, has been accused of corruption and mismanagement. Critics suggest that additional revenue from these taxes will benefit the political elite rather than improve public services or reduce debt. For instance, the bill allocates 2.6 billion shillings for refurbishing the Deputy President’s offices, highlighting questionable spending priorities. Additionally, the 16% increase in tax on bread and sanitary supplies further widens the socio-economic gap, leaving poor individuals in even more precarious conditions. This bill is also controversial as it fails to deliver on campaign promises to reduce the cost of living and create jobs, which in turn intensifies public distrust.

The roots of Kenya’s current unrest can be traced back to long-standing economic issues and historical grievances. After gaining independence from Britain in 1963, Kenya initiated various development projects. However, decades of political instability, corruption, and mismanagement have hindered economic progress, leading to the public debt reaching 68% of GDP. High-cost projects funded through external loans under former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration significantly contributed to this debt. President William Ruto’s 2024 Finance Bill is intended to generate $2.7 billion to address this debt; however, if this bill were to pass, it is expected to exacerbate existing socioeconomic divisions and will fuel public distrust in the government.

Initially, President Ruto declared the protests as treasonous and took a hard-line stance. However, in a historically unprecedented decision, he paused the bill’s process and dismissed most of his cabinet. He then addressed the nation, assuring Gen Z that no steps would be taken without considering their interests. Ruto invited the youth to engage in open debates and discussions to create a new bill that addresses their concerns. Nevertheless, these promises remain statements, and it remains to be seen if they will translate into concrete actions.

These protests against the 2024 Finance Bill mark a historical turning point in Kenya’s socio-political history, revealing the significant impact of Generation Z’s activism. Despite government violence, this movement empowered young Africans and highlighted the strength of collective action and the urgent need to address the cost of living crisis and public distrust. President Ruto’s proactive behaviour is a step in the right direction, but actions speak louder than words. Genuine engagement with youth and reasonable economic policies could ensure stability and prosperity, while failure may lead to further instability.

This situation underscores the importance of inclusive governance and active citizen participation in shaping a nation’s future, offering a glimmer of hope for African youth in similar circumstances. The international community must closely observe Kenya’s response. Kenyans may set a positive precedent for other nations to follow.