Nakuru Gen Z Holds Memorial Concert to Honor Protest Victims
Nakuru’s Gen Z gathered at Nyayo Gardens on Sunday to honor Kenyans who lost their lives during the anti-Finance Bill protests.
Hundreds of residents attended, offering prayers and observing a moment of silence for the fallen protesters.
Attendees held and waved Kenyan flags during an event filled with entertainment.
The protests, which began on June 18, were driven by Parliament’s intent to pass the Finance Bill despite widespread dissent.
The government aimed to generate an additional Sh346 billion in revenue for the 2024-25 fiscal year through the bill.
President William Ruto eventually succumbed to pressure, retracting the bill after protesters died during the Occupy Parliament protests on June 25.
Despite the bill’s withdrawal, Gen Z protesters pledged to continue demanding accountability and better governance.
Under mounting pressure, Ruto dissolved his previous cabinet and began forming a new, more inclusive one representing all Kenyans.
However, this did not quell the Gen Z protests, which presented further demands to the President.
On June 26, President Ruto announced new austerity measures to reduce government spending.
Following the withdrawal of the controversial Finance Bill 2024, Ruto emphasized the need to manage government affairs by cutting costs.
Proposed measures included reducing expenditures in the presidency, including the Deputy President’s office.
He announced the elimination of the confidential vote and cuts in travel, hospitality, vehicle purchases, and renovation expenses.
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Ruto instructed Parliament, the Judiciary, and counties to collaborate with the Treasury to implement budget cuts and austerity measures to respect the people’s message.
Additionally, he dissolved at least 47 state corporations with overlapping roles.
The President also suspended the hiring of Chief Administrative Secretaries (CAS).
He mandated a 50% reduction in government advisers, effective immediately.
Ruto also eliminated budgets for the Offices of the First Lady, Second Lady, and the Prime Cabinet Secretary’s spouse.
Confidential budgets in Executive offices were also removed.
So far, Ruto has nominated 20 individuals to lead various government departments.
Among the nominees are four members affiliated with Opposition leader Raila Odinga.
Hassan Joho has been nominated for the Ministry of Mining and Blue Economy, Wycliffe Oparanya for Cooperatives and MSME Development, John Mbadi for the Ministry of National Treasury, and Opiyo Wandayi for the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum.
This move has sparked mixed reactions from leaders and the Kenyan public.
Nakuru Gen Z Holds Memorial Concert to Honor Protest Victims
