Faith Nyasuguta
Growing concerns in Kenya have surfaced as reports of missing protesters emerge during nationwide demonstrations against proposed tax increases in the Finance Bill 2024. The protests, which have spread throughout the country, are part of a movement known as the “7 Days of Rage,” calling for a “total shutdown” of Kenya on Tuesday. The demonstrators plan to “occupy” parliament in Nairobi, the nation’s capital.
The movement has gained significant traction through social media, with organizers urging all Kenyans to join the nationwide strike. A widely circulated poster read, “Gen Z are granting all hardworking Kenyans a day off,” reflecting the broad support from younger generations.
Kenya’s Interior Minister, Kithure Kindiki, issued a stern warning that demonstrations must conclude by sunset or 6:30 p.m. local time, whichever is earlier. In a media address in Nairobi, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki urged protesters to remain peaceful and avoid property destruction.
“Protesters must not obstruct, block, vandalize, or otherwise destroy any private or public property,” Kithure stated. He also noted that the police would guide demonstrators and restrict access to protected areas under the law for critical infrastructure.
Kithure did not address concerns about several prominent social media users who have reportedly gone missing in recent days. Footage of a young man being forcibly taken into an SUV has heightened fears and drawn widespread condemnation.
Faith Odhiambo, President of the Law Society of Kenya, described the incident as an abduction and accused intelligence officers of misconduct. “Evidently, this was not an arrest as the police did not identify themselves or engage in any conversation prior to the arrest to inform him of his rights,” Odhiambo stated. “These criminals pretending to exercise police authority must be stopped.”
Nairobi is the epicenter of the protests. Opposition MP Babu Owino, in a video posted on social media platform X, invited protesters to the National Assembly, saying, “I will personally open the gate for you so you can come in and have tea.” Despite this invitation, the government has warned against attempts to enter any government buildings during the demonstrations.
Human rights groups and associations of content creators have voiced fears of potential internet and media blackouts, which could further escalate tensions. In a joint statement, 27 organizations warned that such measures would endanger lives and infringe on citizens’ rights to organize, demonstrate, and participate in policymaking.
The ongoing protests reflect deep-seated frustrations among Kenyans over proposed tax hikes, with the “7 Days of Rage” movement symbolizing a broader struggle for economic justice and transparency. As the demonstrations continue, the situation remains tense, with authorities and protestors locked in a standoff over the future direction of the country’s fiscal policies.
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