Actress Urges Government to Address Concerns and Condemns Violence Against Demonstrators

Mexican-Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong'o has praised the Kenyan youth for their historic protest against the Finance Bill 2024. The protest, held on Tuesday, June 25, saw demonstrators exercising their constitutional right to oppose the bill, marking a significant moment in Kenya's political landscape.

In her social media statement, Nyong'o expressed her condolences to the families of those killed during the protests. She commended the protesters, particularly the Gen Z participants, for their bravery and unity in standing against the Finance Bill 2024. The actress highlighted the importance of defending and promoting democratic rights in Kenya.

"I salute the Kenyan youth and I am grateful to them for coming together in an extraordinary way to stand up against the problematic Finance Bill 2024 as well as to defend and promote the democratic rights of the Kenyan people. I am extremely saddened that lives have been lost in the process and my thoughts are with the victims' families," Nyong'o wrote.

The protest, which escalated when angry demonstrators overpowered anti-riot police and entered parliament, resulted in a violent crackdown. Police officers used live bullets, leading to multiple fatalities.

Nyong'o called on the Kenyan government to listen to the protesters' grievances and to work towards unifying the nation peacefully. She emphasized the need for the government to address concerns about governance and to prioritize the well-being of its citizens.

"May the government of Kenya aim to peacefully unify the nation by hearing and addressing the concerns about bad governance that are rightfully being raised," she urged.

Nyong'o's message resonates with many who advocate for peaceful and democratic expression in Kenya, as the country navigates the challenges posed by the Finance Bill 2024