Parliament observes moment of silence for Gen Z protest victims as Mbadi presents budget

Treasury CS John Mbadi in Parliament on June 12, 2025./ENOS TECHE

In a moment of reflection, MPs observed a moment of silence in remembrance of Kenyans who lost their lives during protests against government tax measures in 2023 and 2024.

The solemn tribute took place as National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi presented the 2025/2026 national budget at Parliament Buildings in Nairobi on Thursday.

The tribute came amid the presentation of a budget that aims to address Kenya’s economic challenges while acknowledging the public outcry over taxation policies in recent years.

Mbadi acknowledged the protests that shook the nation in the past two years, particularly in response to the controversial Finance Act, 2023 and subsequent tax proposals.

He noted the tragic loss of lives and destruction of property that marred the protests, which ultimately triggered nationwide debates on the future of Kenya's tax policies.

“In 2023, the Minority side in Parliament supported the efforts of the then ODM chairman to protest against the Finance Act, 2023,” Mbadi said, referencing the series of demonstrations that took place following the introduction of new taxes.

“Last year, some provisions in the Finance Bill triggered protests across the country. These actions, in the two years, regrettably resulted in the loss of lives and destruction of property, and adversely impacted the economic lives of many.”

In light of these events, Speaker Moses Wetangula directed MPs to stand in honour of those who had died during the protests, particularly the Gen Zs who were notably active in the demonstrations.

“Will you be upstanding?” Wetangula instructed, as all members stood in a moment of silence.

Following the observance, Mbadi reiterated the government’s stance on tax policies, assuring the public that no life would be lost, nor property destroyed, over fiscal measures in the future.

“No life should be lost, and no property should be destroyed over tax measures,” Mbadi stressed.

He pointed out that since taking office, he had been committed to addressing the public's concerns.

“The message from Kenyans was clear,” Mbadi remarked. “Since I took office as National Treasury Cabinet Secretary, I assured Kenyans that we shall strive to reduce the tax burden.”

In a bid to reassure the public and ease the tensions that arose from previous tax reforms, the Finance Bill 2025—presented as part of the 2025/2026 budget—makes no proposals for new taxes or increases in existing taxes.

Instead, the government plans to enhance tax revenue collection through administrative reforms, simplifying and streamlining tax laws to make them clearer and more accessible.

“We aim to improve tax compliance and efficiency by rationalising tax procedures, which will enhance equity and fairness,” Mbadi said, adding that the focus was on creating a more transparent and accountable taxation system.