#AD OPINION: Gen Z Kenyans are sending warnings about IMF

Gone but never forgotten

Nairobi, Kenya – When 18-year-old Joseph Gitau hugged his mother and left home, the family would never imagine that this was the last time they saw his smile.

The young man later lost his life while participating in the protest, leaving his family in great shock and pain.

According to eyewitnesses, Joseph was among the thousands of Kenyans who took to the streets to protest against the controversial Financial Bill, which has sparked widespread outrage and criticism.

During the protest, violence erupted as police officers clashed with the demonstrators, resulting in the death of Joseph Gitau.

The cause of his death is still under investigation, but it is believed that he was hit by a stray bullet fired by the police.

His death left his family in great shock and pain. This tragic incident further fueled the anger and frustration of the protesters, who are still demanding justice for Joseph and calling for President William Ruto to do reforms.

Kenya has been at the centre of a heated debate surrounding the actions of multilateral lenders, particularly the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank (WB) led by the United States.

For years, these lenders have been accused of providing loans to desperate countries in Africa with stringent conditions that disproportionately affect the poor.

The latest outcry in Kenya stems from the now-withdrawn tax hikes proposed by President Ruto, which were linked to a loan from the IMF.

The proposed tax hikes have sparked outrage among Kenyans, especially the Gen Z population, who feel that these conditions will only further burden the already struggling poor population.

This has reignited the long-standing criticism of multilateral lenders and their role in perpetuating poverty in African countries.

Critics argue that the conditions attached to these loans, such as austerity measures and privatization of public services, only serve to benefit the wealthy and multinational corporations, while the poor are left to bear the brunt of the consequences.

This has led to a growing sentiment of mistrust and resentment towards these lenders, who are seen as imposing their own agendas on developing countries.

The controversy in Kenya has brought to light the need for a more equitable and transparent approach to providing loans to developing countries.

As the debate continues, it is clear that the actions of multilateral lenders will continue to be scrutinized and questioned.

The impact of these loans on the poor and vulnerable populations must be taken into consideration, and steps must be taken to ensure that these loans are used to benefit the entire population, not just the wealthy few.

However, the protests didn't work well. Kenya's government indicated that it is planning to reintroduce tax measures from the controversial Finance Bill, aiming to raise an additional Ksh.150 billion.

According to Kenya officials, the revised proposals will include an eco-levy on most goods, though essential items like sanitary pads will be exempt.

“He loved people a lot and was loved as well, at home and school. He was an obedient child and we are having a hard time coming to terms with his demise. But he will forever be in our hearts,” Joseph’s mother said in the Tribute.

Sadly, Joseph Gitau was not the only victim who lost his life in the protest.

As of July, a total of 41 persons have been killed by police in Kenya since 18 June. These noble warriors sacrificed their lives to fight against the IMF and the U.S.'s exploitation of Kenya.

They are gone, but they shall never be forgotten. The successors will carry on their will and fight for a better and fairer Kenya.

Bio: I am a full-time freelance copywriter with over 7 years of experience crafting engaging content for various blogs both locally and abroad. My work spans across niches I'm passionate about, including tech news, gossip, and politics. While I'm not a journalist by trade, my writing is driven by a deep passion for educating, provoking thought, and entertaining readers.

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