On Sunday, Nakuru’s Gen Z gathered at Nyayo Gardens to honor Kenyans who died during the anti-Finance Bill protests. Hundreds of residents attended, praying and observing a moment of silence for those killed during the demonstrations. They held and waved Kenyan flags throughout the event, which featured plenty of entertainment.
The mass action began on June 18, driven by Parliament’s determination to pass the Finance Bill despite widespread opposition. The government claimed it needed to raise an additional Sh346 billion to fund its programs for the 2024-25 financial year. However, President William Ruto eventually bowed to pressure and withdrew the bill after protesters died during the Occupy Parliament protests on June 25.
Despite this, Gen Z protesters vowed to continue demanding accountability and better governance. In response to mounting pressure, Ruto dissolved his previous cabinet and began forming a new one, which he said would be broad-based and representative of all Kenyans. However, this did not satisfy the Gen Z protesters, who came up with more demands for the President to fulfill.
On June 26, Ruto announced new austerity measures to cut government spending. He stated that following the withdrawal of the controversial Finance Bill, 2024, there was a need to manage affairs by reducing expenditure. Some of his proposals included cuts in the entire presidency’s expenditure, including the Deputy President’s office.
He also mentioned the removal of the confidential vote and reductions in travel, hospitality, motor vehicle purchases, and renovation expenses.
Ruto directed Parliament, the Judiciary, and counties to work with the Treasury to implement budget cuts and austerity measures to ensure “we live within our means, respecting the loud message from the people of Kenya.” Additionally, he dissolved at least 47 state corporations with overlapping functions.
