Actress Lupita Nyong’o has thrown her weight behind the Kenyan protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2024, calling for the government to address the concerns of the nation’s youth.
The 38-year-old Oscar-winning star, known for her powerful voice on social issues, has expressed her solidarity with the protesters who have been demanding changes to the bill and an end to alleged government corruption.
In a statement, Nyong’o acknowledged the tragic loss of life during the protests and urged the Kenyan government to work towards national unity.
“I am extremely saddened that lives have been lost in the process, and my thoughts are with the victims’ families,” she said.
The protests turned violent yesterday when thousands of young Kenyans stormed the Parliament building in Nairobi, causing significant damage and looting. The demonstrations have been ongoing for several days, with protesters demanding greater transparency and accountability from the government.
Nyong’o’s statement, which used the hashtag #RejectFinanceBill2024, adds a prominent voice to the growing chorus of dissent in Kenya. The actress is known for her humanitarian work and has been a vocal advocate for social justice and equality.
The Kenyan government has faced widespread criticism for its handling of the protests, with many accusing it of being heavy-handed and unresponsive to the concerns of the youth. President William Ruto has vowed to maintain order and restore calm to the nation, but his words have fallen on deaf ears.
As the situation in Kenya continues to unfold, Nyong’o’s statement has sent a powerful message to those in power: that the voices of the people will not be silenced.
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