'Reject Finance Bill' chants rent the air as Ruto lands in Garissa

President William Ruto. [Kelly Ayodi, Standard]

President William Ruto would land in Garissa on Thursday, June 20 amid anti-Finance Bill protests. 

The president was met by chants and boos in Garissa today instead of the usual heroic reception, as his motorcade drove through Garissa town.

He was presiding over the University’s fifth graduation.

A group of protesters gathered by the roadside chanting slogans against the Finance Bill 2024 which seeks to impose additional taxes.

“Reject finance bill…reject,” residents were heard shouting as the motorcade sped off.

“Reject the Finance Bill,” the youth tell President William Ruto as he arrives in Garissa County for Garissa University's 5th Graduation Ceremony pic.twitter.com/hb6FPE0Vmw — The Standard Digital (@StandardKenya) June 20, 2024

The residents had gathered on the side of the road carrying placards in solidarity with protesting Kenyans.

It was reported that some individuals were arrested in the course of the protest.

But as the president made his way to the university podium, he still urged the legislators to pass the contentious bill.

“Members of Parliament should pass the finance bill to secure jobs for intern teachers, fund HELB and school feeding,” said Ruto.

When he made another stop at Garissa town to address residents,  he however, did not make any comments on the contentious bill.

The president rather  promised to build more affordable housing units in the town.

He said that he would establish more 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 economy and create jobs,” Ruto said.

His comments come amidst ongoing countrywide protests against the Bill as MPs are expected to vote for the proposed amendments on the bill today .

The National Treasury has proposed some amendments to the Bill but still, but Kenyans want it scrapped completely. 

Meanwhile, all eyes are on Parliament as debate on the Bill continues.