The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party leader Julius Malema has shown support to Kenyan Gen Z, protesting the controversial finance bill 2024.
In a statement on June 24, Malema alleged that the Finance Bill is as a result of a recommendation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank to the Kenyan Government.
“The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes with great concern the recent events in Kenya surrounding the proposed 2024 Finance Bill,” read part of the statement.
“We stand in solidarity with the people of Kenya who are bravely protesting against this exploitative legislation that seeks to impose severe tax.”
Further, Malema stated that the Bill, which aims to raise $2.7 billion in additional taxes, will undoubtedly raise the cost of living and production.
Malema added that the bill would burden Kenyan citizens, a situation which he likened to the current economic times in South Africa.
The EFF declared his stance for economic freedom and the establishment of robust social welfare safety nets while noting Kenyans dissatisfaction in the bill.
“The protests in Kenya are a clear indication that the people are rejecting policies that exacerbate their suffering and demand a government that serves their well-being,” he said.
Also Read: Finance Bill Protests: Company Accused of Refilling Police Water Cannons Responds
Malema Remarks on IMF
Malema claimed that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank have a track record of undermining the sovereignty of developing countries with their oppressive loan conditions, using African economies as test subjects for neoliberal policies.
He also stated that these institutions functioned as tools of re-colonization, aiming to exploit Africa and hinder national growth, thereby prolonging poverty in the continent.
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“These Bretton Woods institutions serve as instruments of re-colonization and infantilization of the African continent, using Africa as a pawn in geopolitical wars going on, and imposing austerity measures that cripple growth and development, leading to widespread poverty and social unrest to justify the establishment of US military bases in the continent,” Malema said.
The opposition leader recalled when the EFF marched to the parliament on the 23rd of February 2022 and highlighted the damaging effects of South Africa’s R11.4 billion loan from IMF.
He said the loan came with restrictive conditions that impose adverse economic and political policies on our country.
Also Read: South Africa: Malema Gives Way Forward for His Party After Reelection of Cyril Ramaphosa
Malema Concerns Over Police Brutality in Kenya
The South Africa opposition leader raised concern over the arrests and abductions of the protestors citing police brutality.
“We further note our concern on the violent crackdown on peaceful protesters, which has resulted in at least 200 injuries and over 100 arrests. The use of tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets against citizens exercising their right to protest is unacceptable.
“We urge the Kenyan Government to stand down the police and respect the people’s right to peaceful assembly. All those who have been arrested should be released immediately,” Malema noted.
Malema said that EFF will continue to support the fight for economic justice and commended the bravery of the Kenyan protesters.
Additionally, he reiterated his stand with them in their peaceful protest against the recommendation of the World Bank and IMF to the Kenyan Government to impose exploitative legislation that seeks to impose crippling tax.
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