The large-scale violent protests and at least 23 deaths in Kenya this week are a direct response to the proposed Finance Act backed by President William Ruto. The movement was led by young social media influencers, demonstrating the power these individuals hold in shaping public opinion. These influencers were particularly motivated by the proposed 15% tax on digital content creators. President Ruto called the protestors “treasonous” during several volatile days that included a break-in and fire at Parliament but, on June 26, President Ruto announced a sudden reversal and said that he would not sign the legislation.
The persistence and unity of the protesters, many of whom were young influencers, forced the government to take notice. Influencers like Muchiri Mike and Anita Barasa used their platforms to mobilize support and raise awareness about the bill’s adverse effects. Their efforts brought global attention to the protests, drawing support from international observers and increasing pressure on the Kenyan government.
Many young Kenyans rely on social media platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram to earn a living. The new tax was seen as a direct threat to their livelihoods. Influencers voiced their frustrations, arguing that the government was exploiting their creativity for additional revenue.
The events in Kenya underscore the importance of closely monitoring how influencers consume and share information. Influencers are emerging as one of the strongest political players in many regions, capable of mobilizing the masses and driving significant political changes. But these influencers aren’t using Twitter and public Facebook pages to rapidly shift sentiment. TikTok, YouTube, and popular group chats are the most essential tools for this communication.
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