Kenya's Lavish Lawmakers Spark Youth-Led Protests

Kenya's lawmakers' extravagant lifestyles have sparked widespread protests fueled by social media. Young Kenyans, frustrated by proposed tax hikes and high unemployment, are using platforms like TikTok and X to voice their anger. The unrest has led to attacks on politicians' homes and a push to recall MPs.

Lavish lifestyles of Kenya's lawmakers, showcased on TikTok and X, have intensified public anger over proposed tax hikes, especially among the country's youth.

Protests against the tax measures have highlighted the large salaries and perks of MPs in a nation where job opportunities are scarce for a predominantly young population. Demonstrations turned violent on June 25 when protesters stormed parliament, setting it ablaze and attacking politicians' vehicles. This resulted in ongoing attacks on MPs' private residences and businesses.

TikTok and X are now tools for protest, with politicians' luxurious videos being reposted with critical commentary. Discussions on mismanaged funds and strategies for the leaderless youth movement are rampant online. Activists are sharing methods to recall representatives and even created an AI chatbot to expose corruption when politicians' names are entered.

(With inputs from agencies.)