Breaking the Silence: The People’s Power Against a Taxing Regime

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I don’t take pleasure in saying “I told you so,” but the truth is, I did warn you.
On June 7, 2022, I wrote:
“The mob took to the streets, causing traffic. I observed them, thinking, ‘One day these same individuals will realize that Sh200 doesn’t even buy flour, and they will be marching in the opposite direction.’”
This was part of an article titled “Politicians Should Never Underestimate the People’s Power,” which referenced Sri Lanka as a cautionary example.
On November 18, 2023, I authored “A New Low for the Current Regime” in response to the November 6 Gazette.
At some point, the absurdities perpetrated by this government will overwhelm us as Kenyans. I have repeatedly highlighted the dangers of pushing citizens to their limits, where they have nothing left to lose. As the saying goes, “Fear a man who has nothing left to lose.”
I could cite numerous examples, but the common thread in my writings about this administration is a warning about the consequences of pushing people too far. At times, I felt like a harbinger of doom, foreseeing a day of reckoning.
That day has arrived. Today is when the people declare, “Enough is enough.” Today, we fight back!
This past week has been a source of pride for every Kenyan as we witness the courageous youth protesting against the Finance Bill 2024. Their determination and resilience have inspired hope and a resurgence of people’s power across the continent.
Gen Z embodies the sentiment of having their backs against the wall. With little left to lose and even less to gain, they possess a fearlessness that is striking. Unlike millennials, who often felt compelled to accept challenging circumstances due to competition, Gen Z is acutely aware of the implications of poor decisions made by leaders over the past two decades.
Their struggle is for all of us. It serves as a reminder that this fight is not just theirs but ours as well. To the millennials and older generations, do not merely observe from the sidelines; join the movement and #RejectFinanceBill2024. For Kenyans in the diaspora, including myself, we must find ways to support this effort to escape the tax burdens that affect us all.
Kenyans shouldn’t work just to pay taxes. We shouldn’t have to scrape by after deductions. Bringing gifts home should not be a source of anxiety due to greedy customs officials. We should not be held accountable for the loans taken by previous leaders. Let them sell their multimillion-shilling properties to repay those debts.
Our resources are depleted; there’s only so much the common man can endure.
To the Parliament members who voted in favor of the Bill: remember, you are part of the populace. The rising cost of living will impact you and every member of your household, including your employees. To the law enforcement officers who use teargas and water cannons on peaceful protests, know that we protest so you can support your families with the little the state provides.
And to you, the self-proclaimed doctor, the captain of the skies, the tax collector, and the fifth President of Kenya: thank you for uniting us in our common cause.
If it weren’t for your actions, we might not have awakened to the power of the people. Your leadership has mobilized us to come together, transcending tribal and religious divides in our shared discontent with your governance. We also thank you in advance for making history as Kenya’s first one-term President.