A wave of youth-led protests has engulfed Kenya, fueled by public anger over proposed tax hikes and the perceived opulent lifestyles of the nation’s lawmakers. The demonstrations escalated dramatically last month when protesters stormed and set fire to the parliament building, targeting politicians’ vehicles with stones.
Social media platforms like TikTok and X have become battlegrounds, with activists using the platforms to expose the lavish lifestyles of politicians and mobilize public opinion against them. Videos showcasing expensive cars, private helicopters, and mounds of cash have sparked widespread outrage.
Social Media Amplifies Anger
The protests have morphed into a broader movement demanding accountability and transparency from the government. Activists are sharing strategies on how to utilize recall powers to remove corrupt politicians from office before the next scheduled elections in 2027.
President William Ruto, facing mounting pressure, recently dismissed his entire cabinet, vowing to establish a “broad-based government.” However, the protests persist, fueled by deep-seated anger over economic hardships and a perceived disconnect between the ruling class and the general population.
Corruption and Mismanagement Fuel the Fire
Audits have revealed significant discrepancies in the management of public funds, particularly in the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which allocates millions of dollars to each MP for local development projects. Accusations of mismanagement and corruption have further eroded public trust in the government.
Despite the government’s efforts to quell the protests, the movement shows no signs of abating. The youth-led uprising has exposed deep-seated issues of inequality, corruption, and a lack of accountability within the Kenyan political system.
Source: Reuters
