Anti-Finance Bill protesters celebrate wins, vow to push further

Even after President William Ruto bowed to pressure following relentless nationwide protests that saw him drop the Finance Bill 2024 and make far-reaching announcements, protesters seem not convinced.

Renowned human rights activist Boniface Mwangi on Saturday announced further plans to have Ruto yield to the demands of the protesters.

"Defying well-entrenched divisions along ethnic, political, regional, gender, class, and religion, the youth of this country mobilised and marched in the streets, crying in unison," said Mwangi.

Accusing Ruto's government of being founded on falsehoods and false promises, the outspoken activist said it's time for Kenyans to pause and reflect on the gains that the people have made in the last fortnight.

"We managed to galvanise Kenyans beyond tribe and rejected the oppressive, inhumane and insensitive Finance Bill 2024, a first in Kenya and Africa," said Mwangi.

Kenyans have also fundraised Sh25 million in one day to support injured protestors and families of those killed and injured during the protests.

The activists are elated by the President’s public commitment to the removal of unconstitutional offices including the office of the First Lady, Second Lady, and Third Lady.

"We were heard; We will be heard. We are hard to ignore. Together we shall move the country forward. Leaderless but not without leadership," announced Mwangi.

Basking in the glory of their gain, the activists who are planning a major memorial event on Sunday for those who lost their lives during the protests, said they are self-mobilised and self-organised.

"We showed up for one another in powerful ways. Healthcare workers, faith leaders institutions etc."

According to the activists, Kenya's young population are now watching debates in Parliament and Senate, and lawmakers are now forced to discuss issues they raised.

Fresh demands by the protesters to President Ruto's administration include strict adherence to the Constitutional right to life and peaceful protests and immediate reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) followed by continuous voter registration.

In their explanation, young people are also in demand of opportunities in government and beyond. "Full disclosure and audit of the National Debt Register in 30 days," they added.

In the health sector, they are calling for full reinstatement of the Linda Mama Health Care program that helped expectant mothers deliver at no cost in public hospitals.

"We demand immediate sacking of non-performing public officials immediately while there should also be removal of all unconstitutional offices," said Mwangi.

The demands the protesters are pushing at Ruto's desk also include removal of the Housing Levy and reinstatement of the National Hospital Insurance Fund.