Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has criticized the government for failing to honor its commitment to compensate the families of those who lost their lives during the Gen Z protests.
In a statement on Monday, January 20, the MP expressed his frustration with the unfulfilled promises made to grieving families.
“The Government has completely failed to compensate the families of those who lost their loved ones during the Gen Z Protests. We equally know that money is not commensurate to life but why promise and not fulfill? Promise after promise after promise after promise," he said.
In July 2024, President William Ruto pledged to support families affected by the Gen Z protests, which had resulted in casualties and injuries.
During a press briefing, he extended his condolences to the bereaved families and wished a swift recovery to the injured.
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"Once again, I extend my deepest condolences to those who unfortunately lost their lives. One life lost is a life too many. The government of Kenya will support all those affected," Ruto said at the time.
However, despite the promise, no compensation had been provided to the victims' families.
In 2024, Kenya witnessed significant youth-led protests, primarily driven by Gen Z, against the proposed Finance Bill 2024.
The bill proposed several tax increases, including a 2.75% levy on income for national medical insurance and higher taxes on essential commodities like vegetable oil and fuel.
However, the bill faced widespread criticism, particularly from younger Kenyans who mobilized through social media platforms to organize protests.
Peaceful demonstrations began on June 18 in Nairobi and quickly spread nationwide.
Despite initial amendments to the bill, including the removal of certain controversial clauses, Parliament passed the legislation.
This action intensified the protests, leading the protesters to storm the Parliament building on June 25, resulting in at least 22 deaths and numerous injuries.
Human rights organizations accused Kenyan security services of using excessive force, including live ammunition, batons, and chemical irritants, against protesters.
Reports indicated that at least 60 demonstrators were killed, and hundreds more were injured during the months of protests.
In response to the escalating unrest, Ruto took several measures including dismissing nearly his entire cabinet in an effort to address public grievances.
Amid mounting pressure, the government also withdrew the contentious Finance Bill.
