The church had a strong stance in the 2022 election that led to the popularity gain of the current government. Offering the altar for politicians to speak on their political matters that were nowhere related to faith or the church.
Sunday, June 23, finally saw the church take part in the “Reject the finance bill” hashtag. At the Holy Family Basilica, a young man took to the altar, holding the Kenyan flag and chanting “Reject the finance bill,” and the congregation showed support by joining in the chant.
Before this brazen demonstration of resistance against the Finance Bill, the Chruch remained mum on the matter and opted to be passive bystanders as GenZ took to the Nairobi streets to lead demonstrations. Holy Family Basilica, on the first day of the protest, was one to catch the wrath of Kenyan netizens. As protestors stated, the church turned them away when they tried seeking shelter from tear gas canisters.
Holy Family Basilica, in a statement signed by the Metropolitan archbishop, came out defending themselves, stating the church’s compound held a school and they were trying to keep the young pupils safe.
Day two of the protests saw Jamia mosque serving as an oasis for those who needed water and medical care, with doctors setting up camp inside the mosque. Nothing had yet been heard from the church, with GenZ calling them out on their pin-drop silence.
The Kenyan youth on X have shown their loyalty by demonstrating against the 2024/2025 Finance Bill. At a church service in Nyahururu, President Ruto praised the youth for their increased awareness of matters happening in the country.
President Ruto also called for a sit-down with the youth due to the ongoing protests, with the next one scheduled for Tuesday, June 25.
Members of Parliament, Kimani Ichung’wa and Oscar Sudi, have recently shifted their attitudes towards the GenZ protest, expressing support for the protestors and commending their efforts.
Despite this change in tone from political leaders, the protestors show no sign of backing down.
