Gideon Moi, the former Baringo senator, has vocally condemned the arrests and abductions of protestors opposing the Finance Bill 2024. His criticism aligns with the broader disapproval from various political figures and organizations, highlighting concerns over the government’s handling of dissent.
Widespread condemnation
On June 18, 2024, Gideon Moi criticized the government’s proposed Finance Bill, calling it punitive and damaging to Kenya’s economic environment. He argued that the bill would increase the financial burden on ordinary Kenyans, potentially driving businesses away and exacerbating https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exacerbation#:~:text=In%20medicine%2C%20an%20exacerbation%20is,exacerbation%20of%20congestive%20heart%20failure. poverty. Moi urged the government to shift its focus from aggressive taxation to industrialization. Additionally, improving the business environment would foster sustainable economic growth.
Police actions and public response
During the protests, police dispersed demonstrators using teargas, leading to numerous arrests. Protestors, including members of the Azimio La Umoja coalition, had gathered to express their opposition to the bill. They believe the government will only imposes unfair taxes on already struggling Kenyans. Despite notifying authorities of their plans, the police declared the protests illegal. These resulted to clashes and the use of force to break up the gatherings .
Legal and political reactions
Various political leaders and organizations have condemned the police actions. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK), moreover, threatened legal action against the Nairobi Police Chief, Adamson Bungei, for unlawfully banning the protests and potentially inciting violence. They emphasized the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and demanded that the police retract their statement. Moreover they should provide security for the protests instead of suppressing them.
Kalonzo Musyoka, a prominent leader from the Azimio coalition, also criticized the arrests, stressing that the constitution protects the right to protest. Besides, he vowed to support the release of detained https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Detention_(imprisonment)#:~:text=Detention%20is%20the%20process%20whereby,protect%20a%20person%20or%20property. protestors and urged the government to reconsider the harsh economic measures proposed in the Finance Bill.
Broader implications
The controversy surrounding the Finance Bill 2024 has ignited significant public outcry and political mobilization. Additionally, the bill’s opponents argue that it fails to address the economic challenges facing Kenyans, such as high living costs and unemployment. Leaders like Gideon Moi and Kalonzo Musyoka are calling for more inclusive and considerate policymaking. This will prioritizes the well-being of the populace over aggressive fiscal measures.
In summary, the government’s approach to the Finance Bill 2024 has sparked widespread condemnation from various quarters. The arrests and abductions of protestors have intensified the criticism. Calls have been made to respect constitutional rights and re-evaluate the proposed economic policies. The ongoing protests and political pressure indicate a significant discontent with the current administration’s handling of economic issues. Read also https://heed.news/wp-admin/post.php?post=3358&action=edit
