Kenya Has Lost Ksh.6 Billion Due To Protests – Gov’t Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura
Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura reported that recent protests have cost the nation more than Ksh. 6 billion.
Speaking at a press briefing, Mwaura detailed that the losses stemmed from business shutdowns during protests occurring on Tuesdays and Thursdays since June 18, 2024.
He noted that these demonstrations also saw incidents of looting and property damage by disruptive elements within the otherwise peaceful protests.
Mwaura underscored concerns that the country’s economy could deteriorate further if the protests persist.
“We cannot forget the business people who suffered losses worth billions of shillings as their businesses remained closed. We wish to empathize with them as they strive to recoup their lost incomes. Overall, the country has lost approximately Ksh.6 billion as a result of demonstrations, according to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA),” he said.
“Fears abound that if the protests continue, the economy will have a negative impact in this financial year as well and we have a huge tax hole as a result of the rejection of Finance Bill 2024 amounting to Ksh.346 billion.”
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Mwaura urged young demonstrators to cease protests and allow space for government dialogue.
He noted President William Ruto’s gestures of goodwill, such as dismissing his cabinet, dissolving 47 state corporations, suspending Chief Administrative Secretary appointments, and rejecting the Finance Bill 2024, in response to Gen Z demands.
“We make a passionate appeal to the youth to reconsider their plans to halt the demonstrations since that which they clamored for was acceded to. The government reaffirms that the president has heard your loud voices and is ready to act on your concerns as demonstrated by recent developments,” he added.
The youth protested against the ostentatious displays of wealth by government officials, demanding the withdrawal of the Finance Bill and advocating for accountability and good governance.
They urged the president to step down, attributing the country’s economic woes to the entrenched political elite.
Kenya Has Lost Ksh.6 Billion Due To Protests – Gov’t Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura
