NAIROBI, Kenya- Tuesday’s #OccupyParliament protests in Nairobi were marked by many powerful moments of defiance, as youthful protesters made loud chants against the controversial Financial Bill 2024.
One such moment was when a group of young women, likely in their early twenties, broke into songs while inside a police cell.
Others, in videos that have since gone viral were seen taking selfies and sharing them on social media platforms.
“Wametuzoea, akina (President William) Ruto,” went one of the songs, that went ahead to promise more defiance. “We won’t accept.”
Despite the legality of protesting in Kenya, police targeted and arrested dozens of demonstrators.
As required by law, police in Nairobi had been notified about the protest. Organizers also said they had notified the Inspector General of Police Japheth Koome.
The protest saw a significant turnout from Gen Z, with a notable presence of young women.
Observers of Tuesday’s event said their participation underscores a growing political awareness and willingness to challenge authority among Kenya’s youth.
While their chants against the punitive taxes proposed in the Financial Bill 2024 were loud and clear, the protesters remained peaceful throughout the demonstration.
“We are having a peaceful protest, yet they are lobing teargas canisters at us. Why do they want to kill us?” a participant posed.
He added, “We are not going to be intimidated.”
Despite the peaceful nature of the protests, police responded with excessive force.
Over 50 protesters were arrested, and anti-riot officers used tear gas canisters to disperse the crowds.
The Law Society of Kenya has since threatened legal action against the police for their heavy-handed tactics.
The announcement was made during a Parliamentary Group meeting held at State House Nairobi, and led by President William Ruto.
