President William Ruto faced an uncharacteristically chilly reception in Garissa on Thursday, June 20, amid nationwide protests against the contentious Finance Bill 2024. The president, who was in town to preside over the university’s fifth graduation ceremony, was met with chants and boos from protesters as his motorcade drove through Garissa town.
The protesters, gathered by the roadside, vocally opposed the Finance Bill, shouting “Reject finance bill…reject,” as the motorcade passed. Reports indicate that some individuals were arrested during the protests.
Despite the opposition, President Ruto used his speech at the university to advocate for the Bill, urging legislators to pass it. He emphasized that the Bill is essential for securing jobs for intern teachers, funding the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), and supporting school feeding programs.
“Members of Parliament should pass the finance bill to secure jobs for intern teachers, fund HELB, and school feeding,” Ruto stated.
However, when addressing residents during another stop in Garissa town, Ruto refrained from commenting further on the Finance Bill. Instead, he focused on promises to build more affordable housing units and establish digital hubs to create jobs for the youth.
“I have negotiated for jobs in different parts of the world for youth … signing labour agreements to grow the economy and create jobs,” he said.
Ruto’s comments come amid ongoing countrywide protests against the Finance Bill.
