Kenya has firmly denied rumors of an impending internet shutdown as protests against the 2024 Finance Bill continue to gain momentum. The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) assured the public that there would be no disruption of internet services, despite fears that the government might resort to such measures to quell the growing dissent.
“Such actions would be a betrayal of the constitution, the freedom of expression, and our ethos,” the CA stated. They emphasized that interfering with internet access would not only violate constitutional rights but also harm the digital economy, which supports thousands of livelihoods. This sentiment was echoed by civil society organizations, including Amnesty International and the Bloggers Association, who warned that shutting down the internet would be a gross violation of human rights.
The 2024 Finance Bill, which has passed its second reading and is now in the committee stage, proposes several controversial new taxes. These include a 1.5% digital tax on local platforms and a 16% VAT on remittances, among others. The bill has sparked widespread outrage, with many Kenyans, particularly the youth, taking to the streets and social media to express their opposition.
Since the protests began on June 18, the hashtag #RejectTheFinanceBill2024 has gained significant traction online, reflecting the public’s dissatisfaction and determination to stop the bill. Despite the public outcry, the bill is expected to pass, with President William Ruto anticipated to sign it into law soon.
Kenyan police have responded to the protests with teargas and water cannons, scenes which have been widely circulated on social media, further fueling the public outcry. Yet, the government remains steadfast, urging citizens to protest respectfully and within the confines of the law.
This situation highlights the delicate balance between maintaining public order and upholding democratic freedoms as Kenya navigates through this contentious period.
