Kenya has lost Ksh.6 billion due to protests - Gov't spokesperson Isaac Mwaura

In a press briefing on Thursday, Mwaura explained that the country lost billions as a result of business closures during the protests held on Tuesday and Thursday since June 18, 2024. 

He added that several businesses were also looted and property destroyed by goons who infiltrated the peaceful protests to cause chaos. 

The spokesperson painted a picture that the country's economy stands to worsen should the protests continue. 

"We cannot forget the business people who suffered losses worth billions of shillings as their businesses remained closed. We wish to empathise with them as they strive to recoup their lost incomes. Overall, the country has lost approximately Ksh.6 billion as a result of demonstrations, according to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)," he said. 

"Fears abound that if the protests continue, the economy will have a negative impact in this financial year as well and we have a huge tax hole as a result of the rejection of Finance Bill 2024 amounting to Ksh.346 billion."

Mwaura appealed to the youth to halt the demonstrations and give room for dialogue with the government.

He added that President William Ruto had shown good faith by ceding to several demands from the Gen Zs which include firing his cabinet, dissolving 47 state corporations, halting the appointment of Chief Administrative Secretaries, rejecting the Finance Bill 2024 among others. 

"We make a passionate appeal to the youth to reconsider their plans to halt the demonstrations since that which they clamoured for was acceded to. The government reaffirms that the president has heard your loud voices and is ready to act on your concerns as demonstrated by recent developments," he added. 

Youths took to the streets to protest against the opulence displayed by government officials and seeking for withdrawal of the Finance Bill, accountability and good governance. 

They have also called on the president to resign from office, arguing that the old political class is responsible for the country's economic status.