Governance expert Professor Baffuor Agyeman-Duah has criticized African leaders for compromising the future of the youth through irresponsible borrowing. Speaking on TV3’s “The Key Points” on June 29, he highlighted the recent upheaval in Kenya as a significant lesson for other African nations. According to him, the violent protests in Kenya underscore the need to re-evaluate the practice of democracy in many African countries.
Prof. Agyeman-Duah noted that young people observe the luxurious lifestyles of a small elite and compare it to the widespread deprivation experienced by the majority. This stark disparity, he argued, creates dissatisfaction and unrest, particularly when those in power impose taxes on the already struggling populace. He emphasized that this pattern of leadership, marked by self-interest and a lack of responsiveness to the needs of the people, is prevalent across Africa.
The protests in Kenya were sparked by President William Ruto’s proposed Financial Bill 2024, which led to days of demonstrations resulting in over 22 deaths. In response to the public outcry, President Ruto announced that he would not sign the bill. He explained that while the government had planned to introduce additional taxes to fund critical areas such as agriculture, education, and health insurance, the public’s resistance necessitated a reconsideration.
Despite the bill undergoing public participation and concessions being made, the president acknowledged that further concessions were demanded by the public. Consequently, he decided to withdraw the bill, stating that the decision reflects the collective will of the people of Kenya.
In response to the protests, the Kenyan National Assembly approved the deployment of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to support the police. This decision sparked controversy due to questions about its legality and the manner in which it was conducted. Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo criticized the approval process, noting the absence of media coverage and questioning whether the required quorum was met. He expressed concerns on social media, suggesting that Kenya was becoming a military state due to this deployment.
Prof. Agyeman-Duah concluded that the situation in Kenya is indicative of broader issues in African governance, urging leaders to become more attuned to the needs and aspirations of their people.
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