NAIROBI, Kenya- Gen Z TikTok star Anini has hit back at Kitui South Member of Parliament Rachael Nyamai’s dismissive remarks about the ongoing protests against the Financial Bill 2024.
The MP, who spoke in the National Assembly, claimed that the youth were merely creating content for TikTok to attract views, an allegation that has sparked outrage among young protesters.
Anini, a prominent voice on TikTok with over 92,000 followers, swiftly responded to the MP’s comments in a video that garnered more than 19,000 views within minutes.
“You are not even serious. What are views?” Anini questioned, expressing her frustration and highlighting the genuine grievances driving the protests.
Her video, urging young people to stand up and protest, has attracted hundreds of thousands of views, demonstrating the power and reach of social media in mobilizing youth.
The MP based her argument on alleged comments from a student she sponsors, suggesting that the protests were more about gaining social media clout than addressing serious issues.
However, Anini and many other TikTokers have refuted these claims, emphasizing the real concerns behind their activism.
The protests against the Financial Bill 2024 have seen a significant turnout of young Kenyans, with many taking to the streets and social media to voice their opposition.
Despite the Financial Committee axing some contentious issues, the youth are lobbying MPs to reject the bill entirely.
They argue that the proposed measures are still punitive and fail to address their needs adequately.
Anini came to the limelight after her video asking Raila Odinga, Kenya’s longtime opposition leader and former Prime Minister, not to participate in the ongoing protests went viral.
Odinga ackngoldged her message by saying he was a “proud father.”
Observers say many young Kenyans feel that their voices are often dismissed or undermined by those in power.
However, through platforms like TikTok, they have found a powerful medium to express their views, mobilize support, and demand accountability.
