Comedian and host of the Chipukeezy show on KBC, Vincent Mutua, better known by his stage name Chipukeezy says dialogue and participation in public office is the only way to “change course.”
His comments come a day after protests took place in several towns in Kenya for the third week on Tuesday, July 2.
The demonstrations which started on June 18 in opposition to the proposed finance bill 2024 have continued sporadically in different towns across the country despite the President’s decision not to assent the bill.
Several opposition leaders including Edwin Sifuna have said, the protests were merely sparked by the finance bill, citing bad governance as the underlying cause.
Recent protests have however, been mired by hooliganism and looting according to justice and human rights media organisation Sema Ukweli who said “protests that started off peacefully have now been infiltrated by criminal gangs, allegedly sponsored by politicians.”
Citing the hooliganism Chipukeezy said, “Protests are creating a good platform for chaos and hooliganism whether it’s organic or paid and it’s leading us down a destructive path.”
Tuesday’s protests led to the destruction of private property, of note supermarket chain Quickmart in Mombasa, and the loss of millions worth of merchandise.
“Our country is heading in a dangerous direction, and we stand to lose a lot if we don’t change course. We can’t build a nation by tearing it down,” Chipukeezy said. “It’s contradictory to say we are fighting for the youth while harming their businesses and risking their lives.”
Sharing a picture of himself with President Ruto, he lauded him for withdrawing the bill.
“When young people raised concerns about the finance bill, the president withdrew it. This shows that constructive engagement works.
“Real change comes through proper channels. If you think the country is on the wrong track, get involved—either by running for office or by voting for someone who will represent your views effectively when that time comes.”
Meanwhile, Kenyans online continue to debate whether it is worth it to engage in dialogue with a government that says one thing and does another.
While withdrawing the finance bill, President Ruto promised that the government would cut down on government expenditure.
In contrast, according to the Kenya Gazette the Salaries and Runemeration Commission (SRC) is proposing that MPs and senators, whose current salary is KSh725,502, have their pay increased to KSh739,600 monthly.
Similarly, governors’ pay to be adjusted from KSh957,000 to Sh990,000 while that of Member of the County Assembly (MCA) will increase from Sh154,481 to Sh164,588 monthly.
The salaries have yet to be adjusted.
