A unique form of protest has emerged in Kenya as citizens have taken to social media to share the phone numbers of politicians.
This unconventional method of protest is directed against the controversial Finance Bill 2024, which has sparked widespread anger among a significant portion of the population due to its proposed new taxes, which many believe would unduly burden taxpayers already grappling with tough economic challenges.
The primary platform for sharing these phone numbers has been X (formerly known as Twitter).
Kenyans have utilized this social media site to disseminate the contact information of various MPs, encouraging others to call or send messages urging them to reject the Finance Bill.
This grassroots campaign reflects the frustration and desperation of many Kenyans who feel that their voices are not being heard through traditional channels.
Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has been one of the prominent targets of this protest.
According to Salasya, he has received a substantial number of one-shilling transactions from Kenyans nationwide, totaling 40,000 shillings.
He explained the situation by saying, “I have received many one shillings from Kenyans until it reached 40,000 shillings. Anyway, they need to stop the vulgar messages.
Some are threatening me if I vote yes to the finance bill.
Kenyans have now decided to mobilize to teach us a hard lesson.”
In a display of the messages he has received, Salasya shared an example: “Sxx1EExx3D Confirmed. You have received Ksh1.00 from xxx 070xxxx111 on 13/6/24 at 8:12 PM. New M-PESA balance is Ksh40,054.02. Use a unique M-PESA PIN to keep your money safe – don’t use your date of birth as your PIN.”
This message is indicative of the volume and nature of communications MPs have been subjected to, highlighting both the creativity and the intensity of the protest.
Despite the pressure, MP Salasya has committed to attending the voting session for the Finance Bill.
However, he remains non-committal about his stance on the bill, stating, “Finance bill voting is next week, and I want to promise Kenyans I won’t be absent. I will be available to make the decision. Good evening, allow me to continue listening to CS finance.”
The Finance Bill 2024 has become a focal point of national debate, with its implications potentially reshaping the economic landscape for many Kenyans.
The citizen-led initiative to influence their elected representatives through direct and personal means underscores the depth of opposition to the bill and raises questions about the broader relationship between the government and its constituents.
As the vote approaches, the actions and decisions of MPs will be closely watched, with significant implications for the country’s future fiscal policy.
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