Photo: Courtesy
Kenyan comedian and scriptwriter Eddie Butita has finally addressed the contentious Finance Bill 2024, following intense scrutiny and pressure from his fans. Over the past week, Butita had been trending on X (formerly Twitter) due to what many perceived as his indecisiveness on the matter and the ongoing protests against the bill.
Butita’s silence had sparked significant debate among his followers, who were eager to hear his stance on the issue has galvanized public opinion and led to widespread demonstrations. His eventual statement is a response to the mounting calls for him to take a clear position on the Finance Bill and join the broader conversation surrounding its implications and the protests it has ignited.
As the debate over the Finance Bill 2024 intensified, many Kenyan celebrities and politicians took a firm stand against the bill, actively participating in the Occupy Parliament protests. These protests saw significant involvement from public figures who used their influence to voice their opposition to the bill and support the demonstrators.
The participation of well-known personalities amplified the movement and highlighted widespread discontent with the proposed legislation. Their engagement in the protests underscored a collective effort to challenge the bill and advocate for the interests of the Kenyan people.
In contrast to the many celebrities and politicians taking a firm stand against the Finance Bill 2024, Eddie Butita initially remained silent, which did not sit well with his fans and the public. His attempts to address the issue later on were met with disapproval.
When Butita finally shared his thoughts on the bill, he mentioned the concerns he had raised and expressed confidence that action would be taken. However, his politically correct and equivocal statements failed to resonate with the public, who sought a more definitive stance.
Fans accused him of being influenced by external promises or compromises, rather than taking a clear and strong position against the bill. This perception of indecisiveness and potential external influence led to further criticism and disappointment from his followers, who had expected him to be more vocal and unequivocal in his opposition.
Eddie Butita finally declared his position on the Finance Bill 2024, feeling the growing pressure from fans and the public. On June 23, he posted a lengthy statement on Instagram, addressing the situation directly and clarifying his stance on the controversial bill.
In his post, Butita acknowledged the criticism he faced for not publicly stating his position earlier. He expressed understanding of the frustration and disconnect many Kenyans feel with the current system. He admitted that he has historically avoided making political statements, but he recognized that this moment was different.
But it explained his initial hesitation, emphasizing his usual reluctance to engage in political discourse. However, he affirmed that the significance of the Finance Bill and the public outcry compelled him to break his silence. He expressed his concerns about the bill’s potential impact on ordinary Kenyans and voiced his support for the protests against it.
By taking this stance, Butita aimed to align himself with the sentiments of his fans and the broader Kenyan public, demonstrating his commitment to advocating for their interests and concerns. His statement marked a shift from his previous neutrality, positioning him as a more active participant in the national conversation surrounding the Finance Bill 2024.
Eddie Butita emphasized the need for proper structures to ensure that citizens’ voices are heard and represented effectively. In his statement on Instagram, he addressed the criticism he had faced for not taking a public stance on the Finance Bill 2024 sooner.
He wrote:
“Recently, I have faced criticism for not publicly stating my position on the Finance Bill 2024. I want to address the issue directly and share the state of affairs surrounding my recent actions. I understand the frustration and disconnect many feel with the current system.
“It is clear that we need a proper structure to ensure our voices are heard and represented effectively. Often, our leaders lose touch with those they represent. The results are what is happening currently.”
By acknowledging the public’s concerns and calling for better representation, Butita sought to bridge the gap between himself and his audience. He recognized the importance of being proactive and vocal in critical moments, especially when it comes to policies that significantly impact the lives of ordinary citizens. His statement aimed to show solidarity with the protesters and affirm his commitment to advocating for a more responsive and accountable governance system.
Eddie Butita made a clear declaration against the Finance Bill 2024, stating his firm opposition to the legislation as it stands. In his Instagram post, he emphasized that he does not support the bill and explained his active engagement in addressing his concerns.
But it wrote:
“I reject the Finance Bill 2024. I understand the frustration and disconnect many feel with the current system. We need a proper structure to ensure our voices are heard and represented effectively. Often, our leaders lose touch with those they represent. The results are what is happening currently.
I have submitted my concerns and will continue to do so as both a citizen and a businessman. We must ensure that our leaders understand the impact of their decisions on ordinary Kenyans.”
By taking this definitive stance, Butita aligned himself with the widespread opposition to the Finance Bill, reinforcing his commitment to advocating for the interests of his fellow citizens. His statement marked a significant shift from his previous reluctance to engage in political matters, demonstrating his willingness to use his platform to support meaningful change.
Eddie Butita highlighted the importance of advocating for the best interests of his fellow Kenyans, family, friends, and colleagues. He acknowledged his historical reluctance to make political statements but recognized the necessity of speaking out in this critical moment.
Butita stated:
“Over the years, I have shied away from making political stands, but I agree this is not a political moment. With my status, my silence is not warranted. It ‘creases.’ The Finance Bill, as it stands, is not okay. I played a role and submitted my concerns and will do it again when needed because I am a citizen and a businessman. I want the best for my countrymates, family, friends, and colleagues.”
To conclude his statement, Butita officially declared his position:
“All said and done, it is time to publicly make my position official. I, Eddie Butita, #RejectFinanceBill2024. It is time to listen. We cannot be all wrong. Hayaa basi, Gen Z nitafutieni t-shirt kali nireport kwa ofisi.”
With this definitive stance, Butita made it clear that he stands with the public in opposing the Finance Bill 2024, and he called for unity and collective action to ensure their voices are heard.
Eddie Butita’s clear stance and detailed explanation regarding the Finance Bill 2024 have elicited mixed reactions from his audience. While some fans appreciated his eventual clarity and willingness to take a stand, others felt that his response came too late.
Supporters praised Butita for finally speaking out and aligning himself with the public sentiment against the bill. They acknowledged his efforts to engage with the issue and his commitment to advocating for the best interests of Kenyans.
However, critics argued that his delayed response and initial reluctance to take a definitive stance undermined his credibility. They felt that he should have been more proactive from the beginning, especially given his influence and platform.
Despite the divided opinions, Butita’s decision to publicly reject the Finance Bill 2024 marks a significant moment in his engagement with political and social issues, reflecting the broader pressures and expectations placed on public figures in times of national debate.
