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The Perils of Political Transformation: William Ruto's Journey from "Opposition" to Power

In the theatre of political dynamics, there exists a recurring narrative where figures ascend to prominence by vociferously opposing a prevailing order, only to embody the very principles they once denounced. This phenomenon, starkly observable in contemporary Kenyan politics, reveals a troubling trend that transcends mere political theatre, implicating fundamental issues of governance, integrity, and national identity. The Ruto Paradox: From Anti-State Capture to the Heart of Power William Ruto’s rise to political prominence was rooted in a fervent opposition to the concept of “deep state” and systemic state capture. His campaign resonated with many Kenyans disillusioned by entrenched corruption and elite manipulation. Ruto positioned himself as the champion of the ordinary citizen, a beacon of reform against the opaque machinations of entrenched power. However, upon assuming office, the very principles that propelled Ruto to power seemed to erode. His administration, initially celebr...

The Next Evolution in the Revolution: Boycotting Businesses Tied to Pro-Finance Bill 2024 MPs

As the flames of discontent continue to engulf Kenya, the populace is exploring new and strategic methods to voice their opposition against the Finance Bill 2024.

The outcry against President William Ruto’s administration has taken a bold turn, evolving from vocal protests to targeted economic actions.
The latest tactic? Boycotting businesses owned by the very MPs who support this contentious bill. This is not just a protest; it is a calculated move to hit the legislators where it hurts the most: their financial interests.

The Finance Bill 2024: A Catalyst for Change
The Finance Bill 2024 has become a symbol of governmental overreach and economic oppression. Proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary for fiscal stability, but the harsh reality for many Kenyans is a significant increase in taxes on essential goods and services. This legislation threatens to deepen the economic woes of a populace already struggling with high unemployment, inflation, stifling taxes, a depreciating shilling, and overall a high cost of living.

From Discontent to Direct Action
Public discontent has reached a boiling point.

The initial wave of protests and the campaign to expose MPs' contacts marked only the beginning. But as the Ruto government remains unyielding, bent on playing ball, Kenyans are keen to play ball back by taking matters into their own hands.

A new strategy is emerging: economic boycotts targeting businesses owned by MPs who vote in favour of the Finance Bill 2024.
Crowdsourcing Information
The power of collective action is being harnessed through digital platforms. Lists of MPs and their contact details have circulated widely, and now, citizens are crowdsourcing information about the businesses these legislators own.
Social media channels, community forums, and activist networks are abuzz with discussions and plans to identify and publicise these enterprises. The aim is clear: to starve these businesses of revenue and send a powerful message to the Ruto administration.

The Rationale Behind Boycotts
Boycotting is a time-honoured form of protest that strikes at the economic interests of those in power. By refusing to patronise businesses owned by MPs supporting the Finance Bill 2024, Kenyans are leveraging their consumer power to exert pressure. This tactic is not just symbolic; it has the potential to cause significant financial repercussions, forcing legislators to reconsider their positions. Expected damage? 100% fatality.

Mobilising the Masses
Activists are mobilising communities across Kenya. They are organising campaigns to raise awareness about the MPs' businesses and encouraging citizens to support alternative local enterprises. This grassroots movement is gaining momentum, with citizens eager to participate in a form of protest that directly impacts the lawmakers' pockets.

A Voice from the Movement
One particularly striking message from a concerned citizen underscores the sentiment driving this movement:

I've seen a list of Kenyan MPs and their contact details. Can we please crowdsource details on businesses they own so we can boycott their businesses? If they hit us where it hurts by voting yes, we can hit them where it hurts. They want to play? So can we.
#RejectFinanceBill2024

The Economic Impact
Boycotting businesses is more than just a symbolic act; it can lead to tangible economic impacts.

For businesses heavily reliant on local patronage, a significant drop in sales can lead to financial strain, or, most ironically and ultimately preferably, a total shutdown—not unlike the myriad businesses driven out of business by the mindless rubber-stamp voting penchant of those very same MPs—forcing the owners to take a long, hard look at their political stances.
This form of economic activism highlights the interdependence between politicians and the electorate, reminding MPs that their actions have direct consequences.

The Road Ahead
As the movement gains traction, it is likely to face resistance from those in power. However, the resolve of the Kenyan people is unmistakable. We have reached a point where passive acceptance of misgovernance is no longer an option. By targeting the financial interests of pro-Finance Bill 2024 MPs, citizens are demonstrating a sophisticated and strategic approach to protest.

A New Dawn of Accountability
Kenya is witnessing a revolution that is both profound and unprecedented. The shift from vocal protests to targeted economic actions signifies a new level of civic engagement and determination. The message is clear: the people will not be silenced or ignored any longer.

As the movement to boycott businesses owned by pro-Finance Bill 2024 MPs gains momentum, it is a stark reminder that true power ultimately lies with the people. This is not just a protest; it is a declaration of accountability, a demand for a government that serves its people and respects their voices. The revolution has evolved, and its impact will be felt far and wide.

Call to Action: Use the Hashtag #BoycottJudasMPs
In this pivotal moment, we urge all Kenyans to unite in this economic protest. When you identify businesses owned by MPs who have betrayed their constituents and country by supporting the Finance Bill 2024, share this information widely using the hashtag #BoycottJudasMPs.

By doing so, you can help raise awareness and mobilise more citizens to join the boycott. Together, we can send a powerful message that the people of Kenya will no longer tolerate misgovernance and betrayal. Stand with us in this fight for justice and accountability!

To get this boycott train on track, here's a partial list of businesses and properties owned by President William Ruto. More are listed here and here. Even Ugandans know things about our president that he endeavours to keep hidden from us 🤷🏿‍♂️
You are encouraged to identify others and throw them into the bag. They include:
  • Kitengela Gas
  • Weston Hotel, Nairobi
  • The 680 Hotel, Nairobi 
  • Murumbi Farm - Transmara, Narok
  • ADC Laikipia Mutara Ranch - 15,000 acres
  • Dolphine Hotel, Mombasa
  • Mata Farm, Taita Taveta - 2,537 acres
  • Private residence, Elgon View
  • Koitalel Poultry Farm, Eldoret
  • Private Residence in Kosachei, Eldoret
  • Kwae Island Development Ltd, Wilson Airport (2 hangars and 5 helicopters)
And according to Wikipedia, "William Ruto owns a considerable chicken farm in his home village of Sugoi, which was originally inspired by his stint as a chicken seller/hawker on the Nairobi-Eldoret-Malaba highway. Ruto and his wife built a chapel in their compound at their residence in the Karen suburb of Nairobi. His net worth is estimated at $480 million." Hustler indeed!
#BoycottJudasMPs!

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