Massive Protest Planned in Kenya as Citizens Call for President Ruto’s Resignation
Nairobi, Kenya – Concerned citizens and activists in Kenya have announced plans for another massive protest on Thursday, August 8, 2024, to voice their dissatisfaction with what they describe as bad governance in the East African country. This demonstration is part of an ongoing movement to demand political change, and citizens are being urged to gather in their millions at the State House in Nairobi, the nation’s capital.
Online Mobilization and Viral Hashtags
The call to action has been spreading rapidly online, with a special circular posted on Monday urging Kenyan citizens to occupy the State House in a show of unity against the current administration. Social media platforms have been buzzing with the hashtag #RutoMustGo, which has gained significant traction as netizens express their frustration with President William Ruto’s leadership.
A widely circulated circular stated, “Ruto must go. Not my President. You can’t kill us and lead us.” This sentiment echoes the growing discontent among Kenyans who feel that the government has failed to address critical issues affecting the populace.
Social media user Hon. Katiwa expressed the urgency of the movement by saying, “They thought we will FORGET. They called us NAMES and threw INSULTS on us. We are a revolution from the internet and THE INTERNET NEVER FORGETS! We are coming for you! #NaneNaneMarch #NaneNane #RutoMustGo.”
Another user, Ojango Omondi Mc’Apondi, highlighted the solidarity among the youth, stating, “The poor will have nothing to eat but the rich. On #NaneNaneMarch #NaneNane, the youths are united, and nothing will stop us from reaching State House, our destination. #OccupyStateHouse #RutoMustGo.”
Public Response and Recent Developments
The upcoming protest comes on the heels of historic public demonstrations against perceived governmental inefficiency and corruption. In a significant win for the protesters, President William Ruto recently scrapped planned pay raises for cabinet members and parliamentarians, a decision made under immense public pressure. The controversial finance bill, which proposed tax increases and sparked widespread discontent, was also withdrawn.
Davis, a protest organizer, wrote on social media, “Ruto shall give a presser later today. He will throw a bone to us as usual to confuse us and derail the movement. Although, Today I have a feeling he’ll be selling fear. Please, unless he’s dissolving Parliament or resigning, DO NOT RELENT. #NaneNane #NaneNaneMarch #RutoMustGo.”
Lyn Mengich, Chairperson of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), confirmed that the proposed salary increases for state officials, which ranged from 2% to 5%, would be put on hold due to the challenging economic conditions. The proposal had been met with public scrutiny, with many questioning the rationale behind raising politicians’ salaries, including those of governors, amid a supposed financial crisis.
Government Response and Future Implications
President Ruto’s administration now faces increased scrutiny and pressure as citizens continue to demand accountability and transparency. The government’s response to these protests will likely shape the political landscape in Kenya, as the citizens push for changes that reflect their concerns.
The protest planned for August 8th is expected to be a significant event, with many Kenyans hoping it will bring about meaningful change in governance. As the nation prepares for this demonstration, the focus remains on how the government will address the grievances of its people and whether it will take tangible steps to resolve the issues at hand.