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South African opposition political party Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has declared its support for the Tuesday, June 25, 2024 protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.

The party, popularly known for its red berets and military-style outfits worn by its members threw its weight behind the protests, stating that EFF was taking note of the protests with great concern.

“We stand in solidarity with the people of Kenya who are bravely protesting against this exploitative legislation that seeks to impose severe tax,” EFF said in a statement.

According to the far-left political party, the additional tax proposed in the Finance Bill would further burden the Kenyan population who are already facing a dire economic situation.

EFF suggested that the bill was not a Kenyan idea but had been proposed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, as a way of controlling developing nations.

“The protests in Kenya are a clear indication that the people are rejecting policies that exacerbate their suffering and demand a government that serves their well-being,” the party added.

EFF on police crackdown

EFF condemned the police brutality witnessed during the demonstrations, calling on the government to guarantee the rights of unarmed citizens protesting in the streets.

“The use of tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets against citizens exercising their right to protest is unacceptable. We urge the Kenyan Government to stand down the police and respect the people’s right to peaceful assembly. All those who have been arrested should be released immediately,” EFF said.

The party commended the protestors for their bravery during the protests which have seen two deaths reported with hundreds of injuries.

Finance Bill 2024

The government aims to collect at least Ksh347 billion in the fiscal year 2024/2025 and proposed a raft of tax measures to achieve this target.

However, the tax proposals have been met with strong opposition from the youth and opposition political parties in the country.

Thursday, June 20, 2024, Parliament took a vote to take the Finance Bill to the next reading stage after legislators allied to the state passed it with 204 to 115 votes against it.

The August house is scheduled to continue with the debates and amendments this week amid calls by protestors for seven days of rage, demanding that the entire bill be dropped.

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