The Association of Consulting Engineers of Kenya (ACEK) led by chairperson Eng. Jane Mutulili has welcomed the move by President William Ruto to withdraw Finance Bill, 2024.
In a statement on Thursday, the group also condemned security forces conduct during the protests saying the constitution guarantees the right to peaceful assembly.
"The Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and protest (Article 37), and its violation is unacceptable.
"Equally concerning is the destruction of property during the protests. These infrastructures are vital to Kenya's development and are funded by the public," Mutulili said.
The engineers further commended the younger generation for their dedication to analysing and discussing the implications of the controversial Finance Bill, 2024.
They said the level of public involvement, and the open and transparent public discourse is essentially a true testament to the spirit of the 2010 Constitution and reflects the democratic ideals we strive to uphold.
While commenting on the removal Mutulili said:
ACEK calls for all parties involved to engage in good faith discussions to develop a revised Finance Act that prioritizes responsible public spending, avoids unnecessary wastages, and ensures adequate funding for critical sectors like infrastructure, health and education," Mulili added.
They at the same time expressed willingness to offer their expertise in the dialogue process.
President William Ruto on Wednesday succumbed to pressure and declined to assent to the Bill sending it back to Parliament for consideration.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula is expected to convene a Special Sitting to officially withdraw the Bill amidst protests on Thursday.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) on Thursday reported that at least 22 people were killed during the deadly demonstrations against the Bill.
The commission is set to open a public inquiry on the said killings.
