Inside the Plan Protest on Finance Bill 2024 Outside the Parliament

A major protest looms today as Kenyans plan to pressure Members of the National Assembly to reject sections of the Finance Bill 2024, which many have termed oppressive amid the current economic challenges. Human rights activists are urging citizens to gather outside Parliament to demand amendments to the Bill.

Boniface Mwangi, one of the protest conveners, emphasized that President William Ruto must heed the taxpayers' voices. "On Tuesday, we will occupy Parliament and ensure that MPs listen to what Kenyans want. This is our country, and sovereign power belongs to the people," Mwangi stated. He called on Kenyans to be on the "right side of history" and to watch their MPs decide if they are for the people or merely following orders.

The peaceful protest, tagged 'Occupy Parliament' and 'RejectFinanceBill2024,' encourages participants to wear black, carry placards, handkerchiefs, and bottles of water. The organizers have notified the Inspector General of Police, asserting their constitutional right to protest under Article 37.

Azimio Youth Advocate Rachel Tabitha criticized the Bill as harmful to the economy and the living standards of Kenyans. She called for a reassessment of critical items like bread in the Bill, warning that overtaxing could make the government highly unpopular.

The Finance Bill 2024 faces opposition due to its proposed taxes, including a 16 percent VAT on bread, a 2.5 percent motor vehicle circulation tax, and increases in costs for mobile money transfers, airtime, and internet data bundles. Concerns have also been raised over the eco levy environmental tax, which would affect prices for plastic packaging, batteries, and hygiene products.

Molo MP Kimani Kuria, chairing the National Assembly Committee on Finance, assured the public that their views would be considered in the committee's report on the Bill. "We will make sure we accommodate as many views of Kenyans as possible, balancing revenue generation with public concerns," Kuria said.

The debate has divided opinion between Kenya Kwanza and Azimio coalition MPs. Kenya Kwanza supports the Bill as a necessary measure to raise revenue, while Azimio argues it imposes substantial burdens on individuals and businesses.

Head of Public Service Felix Koskei has assured that all revenue collected will be safeguarded and used prudently, with a zero-tolerance stance on corruption. Azimio leaders, including Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Narc-Kenya Leader Martha Karua, have called for economic stimulation over increased taxation, warning that the Bill's measures are punitive and could harm the populace.

Nyeri Archbishop Anthony Muheria urged MPs to let their conscience guide them in the vote, stressing the need to prioritize the welfare of Kenyans over political divisions.

The private sector has also voiced concerns, warning of negative economic disruptions if the proposed taxes are implemented. The National Assembly's decision on the Bill is seen as crucial for Kenya's economic future.