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Elvis Murakana, Son of MP Beatrice Elachi, Passes Away in ICU

Elvis Murakana, Son of MP Beatrice Elachi, Passes Away in ICU

Elvis Murakana Namenya, the son of Dagoretti North Member of Parliament (MP) Beatrice Elachi, has died while receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital, local media reported.

The cause was life-threatening injuries he sustained during a grisly road accident, his mother said.

Murakana had spent more than two days receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the undisclosed city hospital, where he passed away.

Throughout Tuesday night, political leaders, led by President William Ruto, extended their support publicly via social media channels, posting messages of comfort to the family of Elachi, who was the Nairobi City County Assembly Speaker before her election to the Parliament of Kenya.

In a statement, President Ruto said:

“May God grant Mheshimiwa Beatrice Elachi and the family strength to bear with the loss of their dear son, Elvis Murakana. Be comforted by the word of the Lord in Psalm 147:3: ‘He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.’ Rest in Peace, Elvis.”

The ODM Party wrote:

“May God grant Hon. @BeatriceElachi_ (MP, Dagoretti North) and her family the fortitude and strength to overcome the pain of losing her son, Elvis Murakana Namenya. It is such a huge loss to Mheshimiwa. As a party, we stand with her during this difficult moment of mourning and grief.”

Moses Wetang’ula, the Speaker of the National Assembly, also shared his condolences:

“On behalf of the Parliamentary Service Commission and on my own behalf, I convey my deepest sympathies to Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi and her family following the loss of her son, Elvis Murakana. Words alone are not sufficient to provide comfort and strength during this difficult time. I wish to pray and send encouragement in Psalm 34:18: ‘The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.’ May God give you healing in this time of grief. Rest in Peace, Elvis.”

Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly (MCA) Robert Alai also consoled Elachi in a message posted on his X account.

NTSA’s Online Portal Restored After Temporary Outage

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) announced on Tuesday evening that its primary online system for managing road transport services is back in operation after experiencing downtime for several hours.

“We are pleased to inform you that our services are now fully restored,” NTSA said in a statement, referring to the online platform for vehicle registration, driving licence applications, and traffic offence payments, accessible through the eCitizen portal. “We apologise for the inconvenience caused and thank you for your continued support.”

According to NTSA, the system was back online by 5:00 PM local time on Tuesday. Despite complaints that the outage had caused delays, especially in driving licence renewal among a high number of drivers, there did not appear to be any major disruptions to its services throughout the day.

The NTSA Director General, George Njao, had said before noon that the online portal was experiencing a “system downtime.” At the time, the agency boss said its technical team was working to resolve the issue and restore full functionality as soon as possible.

The core functions of this government body include advising on road transport and safety, implementing policies, planning and regulating the road transport sector, and ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient road transport services.

25 Best Money Market Funds with Highest Interest Rates in Kenya March–April 2025

By definition, a money market fund is a mutual fund that invests in high-quality, short-term money market instruments, such as bank deposits, government securities, and corporate instruments, among various other near-cash holdings.

Money market funds, commonly referred to as “MMFs,” offer lower market risk and give your savings an opportunity to grow, as they primarily focus on capital protection with guaranteed liquidity through the diversification of securities and pass the interest payments on to investors.

A money market account can be an ideal place to earn a competitive yield on your savings, as they often have higher annual percentage yields (APYs) than traditional savings accounts and many other cash products.

You can use a money market fund to save for short-term goals, such as a wedding, buying a car, making a down payment on a home, or covering unexpected life events.

Best Kenyan Money Market Funds by Yield

Below is a list of the 25 highest-yielding money market mutual funds that currently offer the highest interest rates in Kenya:

No. Fund name Interest rate 
1. GulfCap Money Market Fund 16.25%
2. Cytonn Money Market Fund 15.58%
3. Kuza Money Market Fund 14.15%
4. Etica Money Market Fund 14.06%
5. Lofty Corban Money Market Fund 13.99%
6. Enwealth Money Market Fund 12.86%
7. Kasha Money Market Fund 12.67%
8. Old Mutual Money Market Fund 12.50%
9. Britam Money Market Fund 12.48%
10. Apollo Money Market Fund 12.40%
11. Dry Associates Money Market Fund 12.33%
12. GenAfrica Money Market Fund 12.17%
13. Madison Money Market Fund 12.01%
14. Genghis Money Market Fund 11.88%
15. Sanlam Money Market Fund 11.88%
16. Nabo Africa MMF 11.76%
17. Faulu Money Market Fund 11.71%
18. Jubilee Money Market Fund 11.68%
19. Co-op MMF 11.50%
20. ICEA Lion Money Market Fund 11.34%
21. CIC Money Market Fund 11.18%
22. Safaricom Mali Money Market Fund 11.10%
23. KCB MMF 10.96%
24. Absa KES Money Market Fund 10.72%
25. African Alliance MMF 10.67%
Final Thoughts

Choosing the right money market fund is an essential step in managing your finances wisely. Always consider the fund’s historical performance, management fees, and liquidity options before investing.

For further guidance, consult a licensed financial advisor to ensure your investments align with your financial goals and values.

May your financial journey be blessed with growth and stability.

How Spotify Pays Kenyan Artists in 2025

Spotify is a digital music, podcast, and video service that provides access to millions of songs and other content from creators worldwide, especially artists.

Since its founding, it has significantly expanded its presence in Africa and offers music streaming services in many countries, focusing on local music and content. It supports African artists and creators through initiatives like the “Sounds of Africa” campaign and the Africa Podcast Grant for native podcasters, among others.

Spotify uses a combination of servers, algorithms, and data analytics to deliver content to users, offering both free and premium subscription options. If you are one of its users, I am sure you’ve once asked yourself how the platform pays artists — and you’re in the right place to find out, specifically in the Kenyan region.

How does Spotify pay artists in Kenya?

Surprisingly, Spotify doesn’t pay artists directly. Instead, it pays the licensor (typically the artist’s record label or distributor), who then distributes the royalties to the artist.

Music on Spotify earns two kinds of royalties:

  • Recording Royalties: This is the money owed to rightsholders for recordings streamed on Spotify. It is paid to artists through the licensor that delivered the music, typically their record label or distributor.
  • Publishing Royalties: This is the money owed to the songwriter(s) or owner(s) of a composition. These payments are issued to publishers, collecting societies, and mechanical agencies based on the territory of usage.
How much does Spotify pay exactly?

Spotify operates on a stream-share model to calculate royalties. This means artists earn money based on how many streams their tracks generate compared to the total number of streams on the platform.

In 2025, artists in Kenya typically earn between $0.003 to $0.005 per stream. This translates to approximately $3,000 to $4,000 in royalties for one million streams. However, earnings can vary depending on factors such as:

  • Listener Location: Streams from different countries generate different rates.
  • Subscription Type: Premium subscribers generate higher payouts than ad-supported listeners.
  • Distribution Agreements: The artist’s contract with their label or distributor affects their share of royalties.

Additionally, under Spotify’s latest policies, tracks need to surpass 1,000 streams in the previous 12 months to qualify for recorded music royalty payouts. For tracks with under 1,000 annual streams, the earnings can be as little as $0.03 per month.

Understanding the “Stream Share” Model

Spotify calculates stream share by determining what proportion of total streams in a given month belong to a specific rightsholder. According to Spotify:

“We calculate stream share by tallying the total number of streams in a given month and determining what proportion of those streams were people listening to music owned or controlled by a particular rightsholder.”

While the figures may seem low, platforms like Spotify provide artists with the opportunity to reach global audiences, build fanbases, and grow their careers.

For further clarity, Spotify offers resources like its “How the Money Flows” explainer video, ensuring artists understand how their royalties are calculated and paid.

By grasping these payment structures, Kenyan artists can better understand Spotify’s streaming landscape and maximize their earnings.

How to Join the National Youth Service (NYS) 2025:

The National Youth Service (NYS) in Kenya has announced a nationwide recruitment of volunteers to contribute to various national development projects. This recruitment process, which runs from February 10 to February 15, 2025, offers young Kenyans the opportunity to serve their country while gaining valuable skills.

The program is open to Kenyan citizens aged 18 to 26 years who have a minimum of a D plain in their KCSE exams. The selection process involves a physical verification of candidates at recruitment centers, where applicants will submit their required documents and undergo medical check-ups to ensure they meet the necessary health standards.

One of the main components of the NYS recruitment process is the paramilitary training that successful candidates will undergo at the NYS training centers, including the NYS Academy in Gilgil and Naivasha. The training is intensive and focuses on developing physical fitness, discipline, and leadership skills. The program aims to equip participants with skills that can be applied to various national development projects, such as road construction, environmental conservation, and disaster management.

Special consideration is given to orphans and persons with disabilities, as long as they are able to meet the physical demands of the training. This inclusive approach ensures that young people from diverse backgrounds have the chance to serve and develop essential life skills.

Joining the NYS is not only about physical training but also about personal growth. Volunteers gain exposure to vocational skills in various sectors, such as agriculture, engineering, and healthcare. Additionally, participants learn leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that will benefit them in their future careers.

Upon completion of the training, volunteers are deployed to various regions of the country, where they participate in hands-on development projects that directly benefit local communities. These projects include infrastructure development, sanitation programs, and other initiatives aimed at improving the living standards of Kenyans. By serving in these projects, volunteers play an active role in nation-building and gain valuable work experience.

Beyond the opportunity to serve, volunteers also receive a stipend to cover basic living expenses during their training and service. This financial support ensures that young people can fully commit to the program without the added worry of their day-to-day needs. Additionally, the experience gained through the NYS program enhances the employability of participants, opening doors to future career opportunities in both public and private sectors.

The NYS recruitment program offers an excellent opportunity for young Kenyans to contribute to their country’s development while gaining important skills and experience. With its focus on training, personal development, and community service, the NYS plays a crucial role in empowering the youth and supporting national progress. Those interested in joining should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and prepare for the physical demands of the program.

Why Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla Faces Court Over the July 2021 South Africa Riots?

Duduzile Zuma. (Photo by Luba Lesolle/Gallo Images via Getty Images)

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, the daughter of former South African president Jacob Zuma, is set to appear in court in connection with the July 2021 riots. The unrest, which erupted after Zuma’s imprisonment, saw widespread violence, looting, and destruction across South Africa, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. More than 300 people lost their lives during the turmoil. Duduzile faces charges of inciting violence, with authorities claiming her public statements and social media posts played a role in fueling the unrest.

Her case has drawn significant attention, partly due to her high-profile family connections and the political context surrounding the riots. Some view her appearance in court as a reflection of ongoing political tensions in the country, with her supporters arguing that the charges are politically motivated. However, the prosecution insists that justice must be served to those responsible for inciting the violence that caused massive economic and social damage.

The events of July 2021 remain a key point of discussion in South Africa’s political landscape. While many blame the riots on a mix of socio-economic frustrations and political divisions, others argue that key figures like Zuma-Sambudla may have played a more direct role in inciting the unrest. The case against her is expected to be a focal point in the broader conversation about accountability, leadership, and the consequences of political actions.

Zuma-Sambudla’s court appearance will likely be closely followed, as it represents more than just an individual case. It touches on broader issues of political influence, the power of social media, and the consequences of political figures using their platforms to incite unrest.

For further details on this story, visit the full article here.

Patrick Dorgu: The Rising African Star Targeted by Manchester United

Patrick Dorgu, a promising young defender from Lecce, has recently become a hot topic in the world of football. At just 20 years old, the Nigerian talent has caught the attention of major European clubs, with Manchester United reportedly closing in on a £30 million transfer deal. This potential move is significant not only for Dorgu’s career but also for African football, as it highlights the growing interest in African players within top European leagues.

The Rise of Patrick Dorgu: A Defender with Potential

Dorgu’s footballing journey began in his native Nigeria, where he honed his skills before moving to Italy to join Lecce. His performances in Serie A quickly drew attention due to his impressive defensive capabilities, agility, and tactical awareness. His versatility, which allows him to play across various defensive positions, makes him a valuable asset to any team.

In his time at Lecce, Dorgu has consistently showcased his ability to read the game, intercept passes, and make crucial tackles. His strength in one-on-one duels and his ability to support the attack when necessary have made him a standout player. As a result, he has earned a reputation as one of the most promising young defenders in Italy.

Manchester United’s Interest in Dorgu

Manchester United’s reported interest in Dorgu is part of their broader strategy to strengthen their squad. The club has been on the lookout for young, talented defenders to complement their existing lineup, and Dorgu fits the bill perfectly. With Manchester United in need of fresh talent to bolster their defense, the move for Dorgu seems like a logical one.

United’s defense has often been criticized for its inconsistency, and the club has been keen to address this by bringing in young players with high potential. Dorgu’s style of play, which combines strength, intelligence, and versatility, aligns with the attributes that Manchester United is seeking in their next defensive addition. If the transfer goes through, Dorgu would likely compete for a starting position in the Premier League, a massive leap in his career.

The Significance of African Players in European Football

Dorgu’s potential move to Manchester United also has broader implications for African football. Over the past few decades, African players have become an integral part of European football, contributing to the success of many top clubs. From the likes of Didier Drogba and Yaya Touré to Sadio Mané and Mohamed Salah, African players have made a significant impact on the global football stage.

Dorgu’s rise to prominence reflects the increasing recognition of African talent in European football. With the Premier League being one of the most popular and competitive leagues in the world, a move to Manchester United would not only enhance Dorgu’s career but also shine a spotlight on African footballers in Europe. His potential transfer is part of a larger trend of African players being targeted by top European clubs, as scouts and managers look for untapped talent from the continent.

The Impact on African Football

The attention Dorgu is receiving from major clubs like Manchester United could inspire a new generation of African footballers to pursue careers in Europe. With Africa producing an ever-growing pool of footballing talent, more and more young players are gaining opportunities to play in top leagues. Dorgu’s potential success story could encourage clubs to look more closely at African leagues, providing players from these regions with the chance to showcase their abilities on a global stage.

Additionally, the presence of more African players in European clubs helps to raise the profile of African football as a whole. It challenges stereotypes and highlights the continent’s contribution to the sport. As African players continue to make their mark in Europe, the perception of African football will only continue to evolve, creating more opportunities for players from the continent.

Dorgu’s Development and Future Potential

If Dorgu does complete his move to Manchester United, his development will be closely monitored. The transition from Serie A to the Premier League can be challenging, as the English top flight is known for its fast pace and physicality. However, Dorgu’s resilience and adaptability will likely help him make the necessary adjustments.

At Manchester United, he would have access to world-class coaching, facilities, and teammates, all of which would aid his development. Playing alongside experienced players and competing at the highest level could accelerate his growth as a footballer. Additionally, the Premier League’s global audience would offer Dorgu a platform to showcase his talents on a larger stage.

The Role of African Football in Global Football Trends

Dorgu’s move to Manchester United also speaks to the broader trend of increasing global scouting efforts. As the world of football becomes more interconnected, clubs are broadening their search for talent beyond traditional European markets. African nations, with their rich footballing heritage and ever-growing talent pool, have become a key focus for European clubs looking to gain a competitive edge.

This shift is not only beneficial for the players but also for the footballing infrastructure in Africa. Increased attention from top clubs leads to greater investment in African leagues, which in turn raises the standard of football across the continent. As African players continue to excel in European leagues, the continent’s footballing infrastructure will continue to improve, fostering more talent and further elevating African football’s global standing.

 The Future of Patrick Dorgu and African Football

Patrick Dorgu’s potential move to Manchester United is an exciting development, both for the player and for African football as a whole. It marks the continued rise of African players in top European leagues and highlights the growing importance of African talent in the global footballing landscape.

If Dorgu’s transfer goes through, it will be a significant step in his career, and his journey could serve as an inspiration to young African footballers dreaming of playing at the highest level. Moreover, it will continue to showcase the immense potential of African footballers and their ability to compete with the best in the world.

As Dorgu looks to make his mark in the Premier League, the world will be watching closely, and African football will undoubtedly continue to benefit from the increasing recognition of its talent.

M23 Rebels and the Strategic Importance of Goma in the DRC

Who Are the M23 Rebels in Congo?

The March 23 Movement (M23) is a rebel group that operates in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), primarily in the North Kivu province. Formed in 2012, M23 consists of former soldiers of the Congolese army (FARDC) who defected, citing the government’s failure to honor a peace agreement signed on March 23, 2009, hence the name “M23.”

M23 is predominantly composed of ethnic Tutsi fighters, and its leadership has been linked to neighboring Rwanda and Uganda, both of which have been accused of providing military and logistical support. The group initially seized Goma in 2012 but was defeated by the Congolese army and UN peacekeepers in 2013. However, M23 re-emerged in 2021, launching a new offensive and capturing large areas of North Kivu, including key towns near Goma.

What Is Goma Known For?

Goma is the capital of North Kivu province and one of the most strategic cities in the eastern DRC. It is known for:

  1. Strategic Location: Goma sits near the border with Rwanda, making it a key trade and transit hub.
  2. Conflict Zone: The city has witnessed multiple conflicts, including the Rwandan Genocide spillover (1994) and rebel insurgencies.
  3. Natural Disasters: Goma is located near Mount Nyiragongo, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The 2002 and 2021 eruptions caused mass destruction and displacement.
  4. Tourism and Natural Beauty: Despite its instability, Goma is home to Virunga National Park, famous for its mountain gorillas and biodiversity.
  5. Mining Hub: The city is a gateway to the mineral-rich regions of North Kivu, making it economically significant for both legal and illegal mining operations.

What Is the Cause of the War in Congo?

The ongoing war in the Democratic Republic of Congo is fueled by multiple factors, including:

1. Resource Conflicts

The DRC is one of the world’s richest countries in terms of natural resources, including gold, coltan, diamonds, tin, and tantalum. These minerals are highly sought after for global industries, especially in electronics and technology manufacturing. Armed groups, including M23, fight for control over these resources, often funding their operations through illegal mining and smuggling.

2. Ethnic and Political Tensions

Eastern Congo has a complex ethnic makeup, with tensions between Hutu, Tutsi, and other local groups. M23 is predominantly Tutsi-led, and its resurgence has reignited ethnic divisions in the region.

3. Foreign Involvement

Rwanda and Uganda have been repeatedly accused of backing M23 to gain control over Congo’s resources. Rwanda, in particular, has been implicated in training and supplying M23 fighters, though it denies direct involvement.

4. Weak Government and Insecurity

The Congolese government struggles to maintain security in the east, with weak governance, corruption, and limited military capacity allowing rebel groups to thrive.

5. Humanitarian Crisis

The conflict has displaced millions of people, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis, with refugees fleeing to neighboring countries and increasing instability in the region.

Who Is the Leader of the M23?

The M23 rebel group is currently led by Sultani Makenga, a former Congolese army officer. He played a key role in the 2012 capture of Goma and has been sanctioned by the United Nations and the United States for war crimes, including recruiting child soldiers and committing human rights violations. Makenga is believed to have strong ties to Rwandan military officials, though Rwanda denies direct support.

What Territory Did the M23 Control?

Since its resurgence in 2021, M23 has captured large areas of North Kivu province, including:

  • Bunagana: A key border town with Uganda, taken in June 2022.
  • Rutshuru: A strategic territory that provides access to trade routes.
  • Kiwanja: Another crucial town near Goma.
  • Masisi and Nyiragongo Territories: Vital supply and transport areas.
  • Areas Near Goma: In early 2024, M23 advanced toward Sake, a town just 20 km from Goma, threatening the city’s stability.

Which Countries Benefit from Minerals in Goma?

Several countries and multinational corporations benefit from the vast mineral wealth in and around Goma, often through both legal and illicit trade. The main beneficiaries include:

1. Rwanda

Rwanda is one of the biggest exporters of coltan and gold, despite having limited reserves of its own. Much of the illegally mined coltan from Congo is smuggled into Rwanda and then sold to global markets.

2. Uganda

Uganda has also been implicated in illegal mineral trade, particularly with gold and tin smuggled from eastern DRC. In 2022, Uganda launched a new gold refinery, raising concerns about the source of its raw materials.

3. China

China is a major buyer of Congolese minerals, especially coltan, which is used in manufacturing smartphones, batteries, and electronic devices.

4. United States and Europe

Many Western tech companies rely on minerals from Goma and North Kivu, either directly or indirectly. Efforts have been made to regulate the use of conflict minerals, but loopholes in supply chains still allow illicit trade.

5. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE has emerged as a key player in the gold trade, with reports indicating that significant amounts of gold from eastern Congo are smuggled through Dubai.

The conflict in eastern DRC, fueled by M23 and other armed groups, is deeply tied to ethnic tensions, political instability, and the lucrative mineral trade. Goma, as a key city in North Kivu, remains at the heart of this struggle, both strategically and economically. While the international community has called for peace efforts, the involvement of regional powers and the continued demand for Congo’s minerals make a resolution complex and challenging.

What’s Next for Goma and the DRC?

As M23 continues its advance and the humanitarian crisis worsens, the fate of Goma and its people remains uncertain. The international response, regional diplomacy, and local governance reforms will be crucial in determining whether peace can finally be restored to this war-torn region.

Goma City: A Strategic Hub Under Siege in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Goma, the capital of North Kivu province in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is once again at the center of international attention as the M23 rebel group makes significant advances into the city. The unfolding crisis has forced thousands of residents to flee, highlighting the fragile state of security and governance in this critical region.

A City in Turmoil

The current situation in Goma underscores the persistent challenges facing the DRC. The M23 rebels, who have been active in the region for years, have reportedly entered parts of the city, displacing residents and creating a humanitarian crisis. This escalation is a stark reminder of the volatility that has long plagued eastern Congo, where a mix of armed groups and weak governance continues to undermine stability.

Goma, situated on the northern shores of Lake Kivu and bordering Rwanda, is a vital economic and strategic hub. Its capture by rebels could have far-reaching consequences for the DRC and the entire Great Lakes region. The city’s strategic location makes it a key transit point for trade and a focal point for conflict, as control over Goma often translates into control over key resources and trade routes.

The Mineral Wealth of Goma

Goma and its surrounding regions are rich in valuable minerals, which are both a blessing and a curse. The area is known for its deposits of gold, coltan, tin, and tantalum—minerals that are critical to the global electronics industry. These resources have fueled the region’s economy but have also attracted armed groups seeking to control mining operations and trade routes.

  • Coltan and Tantalum: Used in the production of capacitors for smartphones, laptops, and other electronics, coltan is one of the most sought-after minerals in the region. Control over coltan mines has been a key driver of conflict, with armed groups exploiting local populations to extract and trade the mineral.
  • Gold: Goma serves as a gateway for the illegal export of gold, much of which is smuggled into neighboring countries. The trade generates millions of dollars annually, fueling corruption and funding armed groups.
  • Tin and Tungsten: These minerals, used in various industrial applications, are also mined in the region. Like coltan, their extraction often occurs under conditions of exploitation and insecurity.

The competition for control over these resources has perpetuated cycles of violence, with profits from mining often funding rebel activities. The current crisis raises concerns about the security of these mining operations and the broader implications for the global supply chain.

Humanitarian Impact

The rebel incursion into Goma has triggered a mass exodus of residents, with thousands fleeing toward safer areas. Camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in and around Goma are already overwhelmed, and the latest influx of refugees threatens to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis. Basic services such as food, water, and healthcare are in short supply, and aid agencies are struggling to meet the growing demand.

The United Nations and other international organizations have called for immediate action to protect civilians and restore stability. However, the lack of a coordinated response and the limited capacity of Congolese security forces to counter the rebels highlight the urgent need for international support.

A Call for Regional and International Action

The crisis in Goma is not just a local issue but a regional and global concern. The city’s fall to rebels could destabilize the Great Lakes region, with ripple effects on trade, security, and humanitarian conditions. Neighboring countries, particularly Rwanda and Uganda, have been accused of supporting armed groups in eastern Congo, further complicating efforts to resolve the conflict.

International actors, including the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), must intensify efforts to mediate and support peace initiatives. Additionally, measures to regulate the trade of conflict minerals and ensure transparency in supply chains are crucial to breaking the link between natural resources and violence.

President Ruto, in Shift, Says No to Finance Bill 2024

Kenya’s president, William Ruto, has refused to sign into law the controversial Finance Bill 2024 that imposes high taxes on various goods and services, requesting that it be returned to parliament for reconsideration.

Citing extra pressure from members of the public, the president announced the decision Wednesday after a meeting with ruling party MPs at State House, Nairobi.

“Listening keenly to the people of Kenya who have loudly said that they want nothing to do with this Finance Bill 2024, I concede, and therefore, I will not sign the 2024 Finance Bill, and it shall subsequently be withdrawn,” he said during a press briefing after the closed-door meeting.

President Ruto’s rejection of the Finance Bill 2024 is a big victory for millions of youthful ‘GenZ’ protesters who held protests countrywide and even stormed Parliament buildings to force the government to give them a listening ear and withdraw the bill, which, they said, it sought to make their present and future lives unlivable.

Therefore, this latest move by the state will quite likely transform the landscape of the protests and even end them, as from Tuesday, there were planned protests scheduled for tomorrow.

Even if this Finance Bill 2024 has been stopped by the president, he still has to submit a memorandum to the National Assembly on why he did not sign the legislation into law before it can be given to majority leader Kimani Ichungwa’h to declare it null and void.

Whatever the case, the GenZs, but especially the baby boomers, have a reason to smile because they have been spared heavy taxation that reminded some of them of the colonialists.

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