The Tuesday’s 25th, June, 2024 #OccupyParliament’s Protest has caught mixed reactions from across the political divide, many legislators arguably stating that GenZ have common landing ground that if not addressed swiftly, may tear the government and the country apart into pieces
Speaking on Monday 24th June, Kitui East Member of Parliament Hon. Nimrod Mbai commended Gen Z’s passion, creativity, and determination, noting that their demonstrations have left the country surprised. He emphasised that the youth of Kenya are not just leaders of tomorrow but leaders of today.
The movement has been marked by scenes of youthful energy and passion, with demonstrators using creative tactics to get their message across.The assertions comes on the background checkup where majority of legislators who voted yes in the Finance Bill, 2024, were in one way convinced into action but their emotions are in contrary to what they did, save for privileges that awaits such uncertain move from the ruling party
Of the recent, is the Kitui East Member of Parliament, Nimrod Mbai, who has called on President William Ruto to schedule an urgent meeting with protesting youth to address their concerns and demands, in devoid of his Yes vote last week
According to the MP, notwithstanding his earlier decision, says, their activities (Generation Z) reflect the true face of Kenya against the old culture of our foreparents where they majorly based on their tribes
“This community has no tribe, no political party, no political leader, and no formal mobilisation, but they have come together to champion a common agenda,” Mbai observed after days of voting yes to the finance bill
Mr Mbai emphasised that Gen Zs deserve a seat at the decision-making table, warning that if ignored, they will overturn the table and run away with some plates
He acknowledged that there will be challenges ahead but stressed that ignoring their demands will lead to more civil unrest and political instability.
“It is better for us to engage with them now before things escalate further. Gen Z deserves a seat at the decision-making table. Otherwise, they will overturn the table,” Mbai remarked .
President William Ruto has since indicated that he is ready to engage youths protesting against ‘harsh’ tax laws pushed by his administration
Elsewhere, Embakasi East counterpart Babu Owino is trending online by inviting the same group to Parliament buildings tomorrow indicating that he will open the gate for them and even offer a cup of tea to each one who will be participating in Tuesday’s 25th June protests, which has caused tention