Kenya, known for its vibrant democracy and resilient civil society, has recently been thrust into a period of intense unrest and societal introspection. Triggered by proposed tax hikes under the Finance Bill, 2024, protests across the nation have morphed into a broader movement demanding accountability, justice, and systemic change. As the demonstrations enter their third month, the question arises: can these protests effectively contribute to realising Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 — Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions — or are they exacerbating divisions and instability?

The genesis of the protests lies in economic discontent and perceptions of governmental insensitivity. President William Ruto, elected on a populist platform promising economic relief for ordinary Kenyans (“hustlers”), faced a backlash when austerity measures were proposed instead. The Finance Bill, initially intended to alleviate fiscal strain, ignited widespread public outcry due to its regressive taxation and perceived elitist favouritism amidst economic hardships.

What began as peaceful marches quickly escalated into scenes of turmoil, notably on June 25th, when protesters breached parliament, and clashes with police led to tragic fatalities. The response from the Ruto administration oscillated between repression and concession, eventually culminating in the shelving of the contentious Finance Bill. Despite this tactical retreat, the underlying grievances regarding governance transparency, economic inequality, and police brutality persist.

The protests have catalysed public discourse on governance and accountability, crucial pillars of SDG 16. By challenging governmental decisions and highlighting disparities, demonstrators have pressured authorities to reconsider policies that disproportionately burden the populace. This grassroots mobilisation underscores the importance of civic engagement in fostering transparent and inclusive institutions.

Moreover, international scrutiny and diplomatic pressure, particularly from Western allies, have reinforced calls for restraint and dialogue. Such external engagement is pivotal in holding governments accountable and promoting human rights, aligning with SDG 16’s objectives of promoting peaceful and inclusive societies.

However, the demonstrations have also exposed fissures within Kenyan society. The escalation into violence on June 25th underscored the risks of unchecked unrest, leading to loss of life and property damage. Moreover, accusations of police brutality and political manoeuvring have marred the movement’s legitimacy, prompting concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and the rule of law.

The polarisation exacerbated by the protests threatens to undermine national unity and social cohesion, essential prerequisites for achieving lasting peace and justice. The Ruto administration’s initial heavy-handed response and subsequent concessions reflect a delicate balancing act between maintaining order and respecting civil liberties.

Pathways to Achieving SDG 16 Amidst Demonstrations

Several strategies can be considered to navigate these challenges and harness the potential of protests for positive change.

1. Dialogue and Reconciliation

The government and protesters must commit to a meaningful dialogue aimed at addressing systemic grievances. This includes reforms to enhance transparency in decision-making and ensure equitable economic policies especially by the current regime.

2. Police Reform and Accountability

 Upholding the rule of law requires impartial investigations into allegations of police misconduct and ensuring accountability for excessive use of force. Strengthening oversight mechanisms, such as the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, is crucial to restoring public trust in law enforcement.

3. Sustainable Economic Policies

Beyond immediate concessions, the government should prioritise sustainable economic policies that promote inclusive growth and mitigate socioeconomic disparities. This includes revisiting taxation frameworks to alleviate burdens on vulnerable populations.

4. International Support and Monitoring

 Continued engagement by international partners, including diplomatic pressure and technical assistance, bolster Kenya’s efforts towards achieving SDG 16. This collaboration should emphasise human rights protections and democratic governance.

In conclusion, while the current demonstrations in Kenya have galvanised public discourse and prompted governmental concessions, their ultimate impact on SDG 16 hinges on navigating challenges of polarisation, violence, and institutional trust. By fostering inclusive dialogue, pursuing accountability, and committing to equitable policies, Kenya will harness the momentum of protests to build stronger institutions and ensure lasting peace and justice for all its citizens. As the nation navigates this pivotal moment, the world watches with hopeful anticipation that these efforts will pave the way for a more prosperous and equitable future.