South Africa’s opposition party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has expressed strong support for the Gen Z protests in Kenya against President William Ruto’s government.
The protests, driven by demands for accountability and reduced taxes, have garnered regional and international attention.
In a statement released on Monday, July 22, 2024, the EFF commended the Kenyan youth for their determination and resilience.
“The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) proudly stand in solidarity with the courageous youth of Kenya who rose against the IMF and World Bank-sponsored Finance Bill that sought to impose immense tax hikes on the Kenyan people,” the statement read.
The EFF also congratulated the youth for their success in having the Finance Bill scrapped and Ruto’s entire cabinet dissolved.
However, the EFF criticized the Kenyan police for their handling of the protests, condemning the use of excessive force and intelligence organizations to suppress demonstrators.
“The brutal killing of young protesters, both with live ammunition and through clandestine operations targeting youth leaders, is an egregious violation of human rights,” the EFF stated.
Drawing parallels between Kenya and South Africa, the EFF called on South African youth to learn from their Kenyan counterparts and demand proper governance.
“The youth must gear up and prepare for the fight of their lives against the rising costs of living, commodified colonised education, unprecedented unemployment, and deteriorating minimum wage and working conditions.”
