In a bold and creative move, a group of young demonstrators in Kisumu, Kenya, drew inspiration from the biblical story of Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector, to express their discontent with the Financial Bill 2024.
The youths gathered along Kenyatta Highway, with one member dressed as Zacchaeus, to protest the proposed legislation.
The Financial Bill 2024 has sparked widespread opposition among Kenyans, particularly the youth, who feel it will further burden them with taxes and exacerbate the economic challenges they face.
The young protester, dressed in back pants and a shirt decorated with black and white stripes, chanted and waved banners while pleading with President William Ruto to reconsider the tax hikes.
The crowd echoed their plea, chanting “Zakayo shuka, shuka chini Zakayo, Shuka chini Zakayo bwana,” which translates to “Zakayo come down, come down Zakayo, come down Zakayo, sir.”
The dramatic display of Zacchaeus descending from the tree echoed their plea for the government to ‘come down’ from its stance on the contentious financial measures.
The biblical reference was a powerful symbol of the youths’ frustration with the government’s handling of the economy.
Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector, was known for his generosity and willingness to change his ways after encountering Jesus.
Similarly, the Kisumu youths hope that their protest will inspire the government to reconsider the Financial Bill and prioritize the needs of the people.
After some minutes, the man who had initially defied the calls was later seen coming down from the tree as the youth received him with cheers.
The protest was a testament to the creativity and determination of the young people in Kisumu, who are not afraid to challenge the status quo and demand change.
As they continue to push for their rights and interests, it is clear that the voice of the youth will be heard in Kenya’s political landscape
Apart from Nairobi, which is the centre of the anti-Finance Bill demonstrations, other towns where the same is being witnessed include Eldoret, Kisii, Machakos, Kilifi, Mombasa, Kakamega, and Nyeri.
