The Kenyan political landscape is on the brink of yet another seismic shift as the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition ramps up its opposition to the Finance Bill 2024.
This time, the coalition is rallying not just its traditional bases but also extending its call to a surprising new group of allies: the Kikuyu business community. Once staunch opponents of mass protests due to the economic disruptions they caused, the Kikuyus now find themselves at odds with President William Ruto’s policies that have allegedly decimated their economic stronghold.(This, dear reader, is the point you can start casually referring to me as "Prophet.")Azimio's Call to Arms
On May 25, 2024, Azimio leaders, led by Wiper party boss Kalonzo Musyoka, vociferously condemned the proposed Finance Bill, branding it as punitive and unendurable for Kenyans. The opposition's strategy is clear: block the bill in Parliament or take to the streets in a nationwide wave of protests. Musyoka's impassioned plea to Azimio MPs to reject the bill underscores the gravity of the situation.
“All our MPs, you have been instructed to vote No...This is the time to stand with your people,” Kalonzo declared, his words a clarion call against the bill that he argues will exacerbate the already dire economic situation.
Unlikely Allies: The Kikuyu Business Community
In a twist of fate, the Kikuyu business community, historically powerful and influential, finds itself aligning with the opposition's grievances. Traditionally, this group has shunned street protests, citing economic losses and disruptions, because "street protests are for people with no stake in the economy."However, President Ruto’s economic policies have reportedly eroded their once-dominant position in Kenya's economy, inadvertently spreading wealth to other regions and communities. It does not help that Ruto's and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's bedroom tiff is now frontpage news around the country.
"We have been telling Ruto awachane na taxes kwa Wakenya amekataa kusikia," Musyoka lamented, capturing the essence of a national frustration. The Kikuyu businessmen, who previously viewed protests as a threat to their commercial interests, are now reportedly feeling the pinch of policies they believe have disproportionately affected their economic stability.The Demolition Fallout
Adding fuel to the fire are the ongoing demolitions in Nairobi’s Kamukunji Constituency. These demolitions have left numerous families homeless, sparking outrage and further galvanising opposition against the government. Azimio leaders, while visiting the affected areas, emphasised the government's negligence in providing adequate notice and alternative housing, a requirement by law.
"We are not going to allow our people to be chased away from their homes kiholela holela," warned Kalonzo, reflecting the deep-seated anger among the displaced residents.
Nationwide Protests: A Gathering Storm
The opposition’s threat of nationwide protests is not a mere bluff. Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni succinctly captured the sentiment: "Kile kitu hii serikali ya Kenya Kwisha inasikia ni maandamano, hakuna kitu ingine." And the implication is clear – protests are seen as the last resort to make the government heed the people's demands.
“Roundi hii tukiitisha maandamano, mtatoka Nyeri, Murang’a hadi Kitui…mtatoka Kapsabet na Kisumu tuambie Ruto aende nyumbani,” added Musyoka, signaling a broader geographical spread and inclusivity in the planned demonstrations.
A Call to Action
As Kenya braces for Maandamano 2.0, the stakes are higher this time around, and the alliances wholly unexpected.
The Finance Bill 2024 has united diverse groups under a common cause, challenging President Ruto’s administration and its economic policies. The potential for widespread protests signals a critical juncture for the nation, demanding attention and action from both the government and the citizenry.
Will this wave of discontent force a policy rethink, or will it usher in a new era of political and economic upheaval? Only time will tell.
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