By Ongera Matundura
Nairobi, Kenya—The Finance Bill 2024 in Kenya has generated significant protests, predominantly led by the Generation Z cohort.
These protests highlight critical human rights issues, including repression and arrests, selective government concessions, the high cost of living, and the emerging role of Gen Z in activism.
Let us explore these dimensions in detail, emphasizing how the Finance Bill has influenced the socio-political landscape in Kenya.
Repression and Arrests
On June 18, 2024, peaceful protesters advocating for the rejection of the Finance Bill faced brutal repression by state forces.
Between 300 and 400 protesters were arrested as they rallied against the punitive tax measures proposed by the government.
This crackdown violated their right to peaceful assembly and expression, fundamental human rights enshrined in both international human rights law and Kenya’s constitution.
Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution guarantees every person the right to assemble peaceably and unarmed, to demonstrate, picket, and present petitions to public authorities.
The state’s heavy-handed response underscores a troubling trend of increasing authoritarianism and the suppression of dissent, which has broader implications for democratic governance and human rights in Kenya.
Selective Concessions
In response to mounting public outcry, the government withdrew certain proposed taxes, such as those on cooking oil, mobile money services, and motor vehicles.
However, this selective removal of taxes failed to address the overall grievances of the masses.
The protesters demand a complete overhaul of the proposed financial policies, not just piecemeal reductions.
This approach by the government highlights a disconnect between policymakers and the citizenry, wherein the government appears to offer superficial concessions rather than engaging in genuine dialogue to address the root causes of discontent.
This piecemeal strategy not only undermines the trust between the government and its citizens but also fails to mitigate the adverse economic impacts that prompted the protests.
High Cost of Living
The Finance Bill’s stringent proposals exacerbate an already high cost of living in Kenya.
The proposed new taxes could further increase the cost of basic commodities, affecting citizens’ well-being.
Kenya has been grappling with economic challenges, including inflation and high unemployment rates.
The additional financial burden imposed by the Finance Bill is perceived as exacerbating these difficulties, particularly for the lower and middle-income segments of the population.
The high cost of living directly impacts the right to an adequate standard of living, including access to adequate food, clothing, and housing, as stipulated in Article 43 of the Kenyan Constitution and Article 11 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). By exacerbating economic hardships, the Finance Bill undermines these fundamental human rights.
Gen Z’s Role
Generation Z protesters have emerged as a bold and innovative force, leveraging social media platforms like TikTok to organize and amplify their demands.
This cohort’s activism highlights their determination to protect their rights and demand change.
Gen Z’s involvement in the protests is indicative of a broader global trend where younger generations are increasingly at the forefront of social and political movements.
Their digital savvy and ability to mobilize quickly and effectively have brought new energy and perspectives to the protest movements in Kenya.
This engagement not only underscores the dynamic role of youth in shaping political discourse but also reflects a growing awareness and assertion of their rights.
Conclusion
In summary, the Finance Bill 2024 has strained human rights in Kenya, with protesters demanding fairer policies and greater accountability from the government.
The repression of peaceful protests, selective government concessions, the exacerbation of the high cost of living, and the pivotal role of Generation Z in these protests illustrate the multifaceted impact of the Finance Bill.
Addressing these issues requires a holistic approach that includes genuine dialogue between the government and its citizens, comprehensive economic reforms, and a commitment to upholding human rights and democratic principles.
The situation in Kenya serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of responsive and accountable governance in safeguarding human rights and promoting social justice.