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Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urged the Kenyan public to forgive the Members of Parliament from Kenya Kwanza who supported the contentious Finance Bill 2024, triggering widespread protests.
This plea came after President William Ruto declined to sign the bill into law amid public outcry.
“I want them to know that Members of Parliament can exercise their voting right. Should anyone have a problem with a Member of Parliament because of his or her decision, you’ll have an opportunity to express your displeasure in the next general elections,” he stated.
In response to the Deputy President’s appeal, several MPs publicly apologized for disregarding the wishes of the electorate.
MPs who have asked for forgiveness
1. David Gikaria
Nakuru East MP David Gikaria and his wife wore t-shirts with the message “I am sorry, forgive me” as a visual gesture of apology to his constituents. He acknowledged that ignoring the wishes of the people had contributed to the outrage that led to widespread damage nationwide.
2. Joseph Namuar
Central Turkana MP Joseph Namuar also issued a heartfelt apology after voting in favor of the Finance Bill 2024.
He went on to commend Ruto for withdrawing the bill, which was seen as oppressive to Kenyans. Expressing regret for his support of the bill, he emphasized that this decision has opened up opportunities for dialogue between Generation Z and leaders. “I commend him for his leadership in demonstrating today that he listens to the views of Kenyans. If we erred in our decision to vote YES, we ask for your forgiveness,” Namuar stated.
3. John Kiarie
The Dagoretti South lawmaker took the initiative to write a lengthy apology letter following his remarks during the protests.
Kiarie claimed that the images circulated during the protests were either downloaded or AI-generated. In his letter, he admitted that his remarks were unwarranted, misguided, and insensitive.
“I deeply regret my utterances and understand the anger and frustration that exists in our nation. Anger that stems from decades of unresolved, but potent national issues,” the letter read in part.
4. Didmus Barasa
The UDA legislator from Kimilili Constituency has also expressed regret to Generation Z members after voting for the controversial bill, as reported by Kiss 100. This follows his alignment with the protesters and his self-appointment as a leader for the younger generation. “Today I have appointed myself as the chairman of Generation Z. The Nairobi chapter can now appoint the vice chair. From now on, Generation Zs are no longer leaderless,” he stated.
