Wednesday June 19, 2024
Hanifa Farsafi, a prominent Somali activist, has been at the forefront of the protests against Kenya's proposed tax hikes. Her leadership and resolve have inspired many to join the cause. (Photo supplied by Hanifa Farsafi)
NAIROBI, Kenya (HOL) — Kenya's proposed tax hikes have ignited widespread protests, with Hanifa Farsafi, a Somali activist, emerging as a prominent leader. Videos of Farsafi at the forefront of the protests have gone viral on social media, drawing significant attention to the cause. The government's tax plan, part of the new annual budget, included a 16% increase on bread and higher taxes on cooking oil and mobile phone bills. Following intense public outcry and clashes between police and protesters, the government suspended the proposal.
Farsafi, known for her leadership in the Occupy Parliament protests, has played a key role in mobilizing demonstrators against the tax increases. She has been arrested multiple times. A recent video showing her arrest by a plain-clothes policeman, who snatched her bag, went viral and sparked public outrage, further highlighting the heavy-handed tactics used by the police.
The protests have seen significant participation, with dozens of demonstrators, including key figures like Farsafi, arrested. The government's use of tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters highlights the confrontational nature of these demonstrations. Despite the government's initial reluctance to retract the tax hikes, the intense public backlash forced a reconsideration.
The protests have been notably influenced by the use of social media and smartphones, especially by Gen Z activists like Farsafi. These tools have been crucial in organizing protests, spreading information, and gaining international attention. The involvement of tech-savvy young activists has brought a new dynamic to the protests, making them more organized, widespread, and challenging for authorities to control.
The Finance Committee of the Kenyan Parliament has since reduced the proposed tax hikes. The announcement was made at a press conference attended by President William Ruto and other members of the ruling coalition. Kuria Kimani, chairman of the finance committee, stated that the decision to drop some proposals aimed to protect Kenyans from the rising cost of living.
Since taking office in September 2022, President Ruto's administration has introduced various new taxes to address the country's $80 billion debt. However, critics fear these taxes could slow economic growth and increase unemployment.
Other proposed taxes included levies on cars and an ECO tax on environmentally harmful products like packaging, plastics, and tires. Activists have criticized these measures, arguing they would raise the cost of essential items such as diapers, sanitary towels, computers, and cell phones. Kimani announced that the ECO tax would now only apply to imported goods.
President Ruto did not speak or react during the press conference, but the government's handling of the tax proposals is seen as a setback. Ruto has urged Kenyans to accept the additional taxes, arguing that fewer taxes have been imposed than perceived, though he acknowledged the difficulty.
Over the past two years, Kenya has raised taxes on payroll, fuel, and general sales. The government also introduced a 1.5% property tax on workers' wages, aimed at providing affordable housing for the poor. New higher health insurance premiums are expected to go into effect soon.