Last year, when the Kenya Kwanza government introduced the Finance Bill 2024, many Kenyans became very angry. The bill brought more taxes, which most Kenyans could not afford.
People across the country started complaining, begging Members of Parliament (MPs) not to vote for the bill to pass. They said life was already hard and more taxes would make things worse.
Even with all the cries from Kenyans, the government continued to push for the bill to pass. During that time, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua gave a strong warning to MPs. He said that any MP who would vote “No” to the Finance Bill would not receive any funds to develop their constituency. This message put many MPs under pressure.
In June, thousands of Gen Z youths went to the streets to say no to the Finance Bill. The protests grew big, and the police could not stop them. The young people managed to get into Parliament where MPs were seated, discussing the bill.
Soon, violence broke out. A part of the Parliament building was set on fire. Many things were stolen and destroyed. During this chaos, several Gen Z protestors were shot and killed.
One of the young heroes who died is Kevin Masike, also known as Mr. Speaker Sir. He was shot dead just moments after stepping outside the Parliament. Kenyans continue to mourn his brave sacrifice.
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Politics