The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has released a statement expressing solidarity with the people of Kenya as they protest against the proposed 2024 Finance Bill. The bill, which aims to raise $2.7 billion in additional taxes, has elicited widespread concern due to its potential impact on the cost of living and production in the country.
The use of tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets against citizens exercising their right to protest is unacceptable.
EFF’s Statement on the nationwide Finance Bill protests in Kenya
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“The Bill, which aims to raise $2.7 billion in additional taxes, will undoubtedly raise the cost of living and production, further burdening the people of Kenya, who like us, are already living under dire economic conditions,” read part of the statement dated Monday, June 24.
The EFF has raised alarm over the oppressive loan conditions recommended by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank to the Kenyan government, highlighting a broader issue faced by many developing nations under the influence of these institutions.
“We commend the bravery of the Kenyan protesters and stand with them in their peaceful protest against the recommendation of the World Bank and IMF to the Kenyan Government to impose exploitative legislation that seeks to impose crippling tax.”
The EFF has criticized the IMF and World Bank for their historical role in undermining the sovereignty of developing countries and imposing austerity measures that lead to widespread poverty and social unrest. The statement emphasizes the detrimental effects of IMF loans on South Africa, pointing out that such loans come with restrictive conditions that impose adverse economic and political policies on the recipient countries.
“The 2024 Finance Bill is the result of a recommendation from the International
Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank to the Kenyan Government. This is, therefore, part of a broader problem faced by many developing nations under the yoke of the
“IMF and World Bank loans, The IMF and World Bank have a notorious history of undermining the sovereignty of developing countries through their oppressive loan conditions, and treating African economies like lab rats for neoliberal templates,” the EFF noted.
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Furthermore, the EFF expressed concern over the violent crackdown on peaceful protesters in Kenya, condemning the use of tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets against citizens exercising their right to protest. The EFF has urged the Kenyan government to respect the people’s right to peaceful assembly and to release all those who have been arrested immediately.
“We further note our concern on the violent crackdown on peaceful protesters, which has resulted in at least 200 injuries and over 100 arrests. 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.” the EFF stated.
