Eric Omondi to Host Parallel Mashujaa Day Event to Honour Protest Victims

Kenyan comedian and activist Eric Omondi is planning to host a parallel Mashujaa Day celebration on October 20, 2024, to honour Kenyans who lost their lives during the anti-Finance Bill protests. The outspoken entertainer, known for his social justice campaigns, announced the event as a tribute to the “real heroes” who stood against the controversial bill earlier this year.

Omondi, who has been vocal about his discontent with the government’s tax policies, stated that the official Mashujaa Day celebrations, which typically honour historical figures and freedom fighters, would not address the sacrifices made by ordinary Kenyans in recent protests.

Highlights:

Eric Omondi to host a parallel Mashujaa Day celebration on October 20, 2024.
The event will honour Kenyans who died during anti-Finance Bill protests.
Omondi criticises the official celebrations, calling them disconnected from the struggles of the people.
The comedian has been a vocal critic of the Finance Bill 2023 and its impact on the Kenyan populace.

Omondi’s Call to Action

In a press conference held on Monday, October 14, 2024, Omondi criticised the government’s Mashujaa Day celebrations, accusing the leadership of ignoring the everyday struggles of citizens. He emphasized that his event would focus on the “true heroes” who took to the streets to protest the Finance Bill 2024, which introduced new taxes that have heavily burdened the public.

“These are the real Mashujaas (heroes), the brave souls who stood up against oppression and paid the ultimate price. We cannot let their sacrifice go unnoticed,” Omondi stated during the briefing. He urged Kenyans to join him in celebrating the lives of those who died during the protests, saying that their fight for justice and fairness should be recognized as a significant part of the country’s ongoing struggle for freedom.

Mashujaa Day Celebrations

Mashujaa Day, celebrated every October 20, is one of Kenya’s most significant national holidays. It commemorates the heroes and heroines who fought for the country’s independence. Typically, the celebrations are led by the president and other top government officials, with speeches and parades honouring historical figures like Jomo Kenyatta, Dedan Kimathi, and other liberation icons.

However, Omondi’s parallel event aims to shift focus to the struggles faced by modern-day Kenyans. The comedian’s event will include performances by local artists, speeches by civil society leaders, and a candlelight vigil in memory of those who died during the protests.

Background on Anti-Finance Bill Protests

The anti-Finance Bill protests erupted in mid-2023 after the government introduced measures that significantly increased taxes on basic commodities and services. The new levies, which included hikes on fuel, housing, and mobile transactions, sparked outrage among Kenyans, many of whom already faced economic hardship.

Protestors took to the streets in various parts of the country, demanding the bill’s repeal. However, the demonstrations were met with police resistance, leading to clashes and the tragic deaths of several citizens. Despite the protests, the government passed the bill, further deepening tensions between the state and the public.

Omondi has been one of the loudest critics of the Finance Bill, using his platform to amplify the voices of ordinary Kenyans and call for accountability in leadership.

“As we gather on Mashujaa Day, let’s remember that the fight for justice continues, and it’s not just about the heroes of the past but also those who are standing up today,” Omondi concluded.