Kisii County residents protest against the 2024/2025 finance bill in Bosongo

A significant number of Kisii County residents gathered yesterday in Bosongo to stage a peaceful demonstration expressing their dissatisfaction with the proposed financial bill for the fiscal year 2024/2025. The demonstrators, consisting of community members, business owners, and local leaders, voiced their concerns over the potential impact of the bill on the everyday lives of Kenyan citizens.

The protest was organized in response to the government's recent introduction of the finance bill, which proposes several changes to taxation and public spending. The residents argued that these changes would disproportionately affect the average Kenyan, increasing the cost of living and placing additional financial burdens on already struggling households.

During the demonstration, several speakers took to the podium to articulate their grievances. One of the community leaders emphasized the need for the government to consider the economic realities faced by ordinary citizens. She stated, "The proposed financial bill is not in the best interest of the common Kenyan. It will raise the cost of basic commodities and services, making life even harder for those who are already finding it difficult to make ends meet."

Another speaker highlighted the potential negative impact on small and medium-sized enterprises. "Small businesses are the backbone of our economy," He said. "The new taxes and regulatory changes proposed in this bill will stifle growth and lead to job losses, further exacerbating the unemployment crisis."

The demonstrators carried placards and banners with messages urging Members of Parliament to reject the finance bill. "MPs, Listen to the People," "Reject the Finance Bill," and "Save Our Economy" were among the slogans displayed by the protestors. The peaceful march through the streets of Bosongo drew significant attention and support from bystanders, who cheered and joined in the calls for action.

The protestors called on their elected representatives to take their concerns seriously and to vote against the bill when it is presented in Parliament. They stressed that the government should prioritize policies that foster economic growth, support small businesses, and protect vulnerable populations.

"We are here today to send a clear message to our MPs: stand with the people who elected you," said one of the Protestants. "Reject this bill and work with us to develop a fair and sustainable financial plan that benefits all Kenyans, not just a privileged few."

The organizers vowed to continue their efforts to oppose the bill until their voices are heard and their demands are met. They expressed hope that their peaceful protest would inspire similar actions across the country, building a unified front against the proposed financial legislation.