- The demos were called to protest against proposed tax measures in the Finance Bill, 2024, which many Kenyans feel are punitive.
- In a statement on X, Ngunyi was full of praise for the lot of youth who took part in the civil disobedience, but quickly switched into a teaser.
Image: FILE
Political pundit Mutahi Ngunyi has weighed in on Tuesday’s Occupy Parliament demonstrations and commended the youthful Kenyans for their brevity in leading the demos from the frontline.
The demos were called to protest against proposed tax measures in the Finance Bill, 2024, which many Kenyans feel are punitive.
In a statement on X, Ngunyi was full of praise for the lot of youth who took part in the civil disobedience, but quickly switched into a teaser.
He took issue with a group he referred to as ‘rural Gen Zs’ who he contends snubbed the protests.
“Finance Bill, 2024 has given birth to the Gen Z Nation. This group has enough energy to power a locomotive. Bravo!!” Ngunyi said.
“But where were the Rural Gen Zs? Where were Kibera boys? You cannot do a revolution and stop at Java to eat a sandwich. This is posh politics,” he added.
Protesters occasionally stormed into eateries located on major streets when they were overwhelmed by teargas lobbed by anti-riot police.
Some claimed on social media that staff at some of the eateries were kind enough to offer them water with which they washed off burning chemicals off their eyes.
Some said they were offered snacks for ‘refuelling’ before resuming protests.
The protests were lauded by many Kenyans as being largely peaceful as there was no looting or destruction of property.
The stone-throwing that’s synonymous with demonstrations was also nonexistent.
The protesters, armed with smartphones and water bottles, engaged anti-riot police in running battles whilst documenting the events as they unfolded.
Social media was awash with video footage and images as the protesters posted updates by the minute.
In one of the videos, a young lady sent a message to Opposition chief Raila Odinga urging him to sit back and let them take over from where he left off.
“Agwambo (Raila) this is a message to you; don’t come. Agwambo, please stay at home. We saw your efforts, we saw everything that you did for Kenya. We miss you but don’t even come outside, we are out on your behalf.”
The Azimio leader commended the youthful demonstrators for mustering the courage and fearlessly making their voices heard.
“I’m a very proud father today! Hongera sana to the young lady and all those who bravely stood up for their rights!” Raila said.
Raila has been the face of anti-government protests since the advent of multiparty democracy but has recently toned down after expressing interest in the AU Commission chairmanship.
Observers say Raila’s softened stance is tactical since he requires the government’s support as he eyes the AU top job.