Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o has publicly endorsed the efforts of Kenyan youth amidst the ongoing protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
Through a heartfelt message on her Instagram page, Nyong’o expressed admiration for the youth’s resilience and commitment to defending their democratic rights.
The Kenyan-born actress, known for her roles in critically acclaimed films such as “12 Years a Slave” and “Black Panther,” used her platform to highlight the significance of the youth’s actions and the broader implications for democracy and governance 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,”
The Finance Bill 2024 has been a source of significant contention among Kenyans, leading to mass protests across the country. Critics argue that the bill, which includes various tax hikes and economic reforms, will exacerbate the already challenging economic conditions for many citizens, potentially leading to increased unemployment and a higher cost of living. The discontent has seen thousands of Kenyans take to the streets, demanding a reconsideration of the bill’s provisions.
Nyong’o, who has often used her platform to advocate for social justice and equality, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives resulting from the protests.
“I am extremely saddened that lives have been lost in the process, and my thoughts are with the victims’ families,” she wrote, emphasizing the human cost of the ongoing unrest.
In her message, Nyong’o urged the Kenyan government to take a more conciliatory approach and to actively engage with the concerns 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. #RejectFinanceBill2024,” she added, calling for dialogue and a commitment to democratic principles.
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