Gospel musician‑turned‑politician Reuben Kigame has renewed sharp criticism of President William Ruto’s government over its handling of the 2024 Finance Bill protests, questioning the sincerity of recent tax‑cut proposals ahead of elections.
In a statement posted on social media, Kigame accused the administration of a “double standard” on taxes, saying the same leadership that met youth calls to lower taxes today had “butchered more than 100 young people” when they took to the streets to oppose the Finance Bill last year.
He alleged that police abducted and tortured protesters, and criticised Ruto for labelling dissent “treasonous” at the time.
“Now the same Ruto announces he will lower taxes so that he can be reelected and some people cheer,” Kigame wrote, adding that Kenyans need “justice for our children and a return to fundamental values, and ensure that none of the killers is in the next government.”
The Gen Z‑led protests of June and July 2024 were triggered by widespread opposition to the Finance Bill, which many young Kenyans argued would raise the cost of living through new taxes on essentials.
Demonstrations quickly spread nationwide, culminating in a dramatic storming of the Kenyan Parliament building in Nairobi.
Security forces responded with force, and rights groups documented dozens of deaths and numerous injuries and arrests during clashes. Ruto initially called the demonstrations “treasonous” before withdrawing parts of the bill amid the unrest.
Kigame’s remarks come as Ruto’s administration is pushing proposed income tax relief, including raising the tax‑free threshold and cutting PAYE rates for low‑ and middle‑income earners—moves government officials frame as needed to boost household incomes.
Critics like Kigame argue that lowering taxes now cannot erase unresolved grievances over state violence and accountability.
His comments reflect a broader unease among activists and citizens over how the state engaged with dissent in 2024 and whether justice has been served for those affected.