Professor Fred Ogolla Calls for Justice Amid Critique of 2025 Finance Bill at Bunge la Mwananchi

By Emmanuel Busera-Mohammed

Jivanjee Gardens—Thursday afternoon saw a surge of passionate voices gathered under the banners of Bunge la Mwananchi, a grassroots movement dedicated to social justice, participatory governance, and ensuring that the voices of ordinary Kenyans are heard and respected in national policymaking. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and a collective sense of purpose as the crowd, comprising farmers, teachers, small entrepreneurs, students, and workers from various sectors, waited eagerly for Professor Fred Ogolla, a renowned scholar, human rights advocate, and a staunch defender of social justice, to address the pressing issues facing the nation, particularly in relation to the proposed 2025 Finance Bill.

As Professor Ogolla stepped onto the makeshift podium—an improvised stage surrounded by a sea of attentive faces—his calm, measured demeanor, coupled with a commanding presence, immediately drew the crowd’s attention. His reputation as a fierce advocate for justice and his deep understanding of Kenya’s legal and socio-economic landscape lent authority to his words. With clarity and purpose, he began addressing the gathering, emphasizing that this was more than just a discussion on policies; it was a critical examination of the very principles underpinning governance and economic planning in Kenya.

“Today, we are not merely discussing policies,” Ogolla stated firmly, “but scrutinizing the very fabric of our governance—particularly the 2025 Finance Bill, which, in its current form, threatens to deepen societal inequalities and marginalize the most vulnerable among us.” His words resonated deeply, striking a chord with the crowd that had gathered with hopes of advocating for their rights and fair treatment.

He proceeded to critically analyze the provisions of the Finance Bill, highlighting how it appears to overlook the needs of the common mwananchi—the everyday Kenyan who struggles to make ends meet. “The proposed hikes in VAT and excise duties will disproportionately impact ordinary citizens relying on basic commodities like unga (maize flour), fuel, and medicines,” Ogolla explained. “Increasing taxes on essential goods is not just a financial matter; it’s an assault on the daily survival of our people. It threatens to push millions deeper into poverty, making it harder for families to access basic necessities that are fundamental to their well-being.”

Ogolla underscored that economic policies must be rooted in principles of social justice and fairness. “A just society is one where economic growth benefits everyone, not just the wealthy few. Yet, this bill seems to silence the voices of those who wake up each day burdened by poverty, struggling to put food on their tables, and yearning for a better life.”

The legal scholar did not shy away from criticizing the government’s allocation of resources, pointing out the glaring disparity between national spending priorities and the actual needs of ordinary Kenyans. “Billions allocated to defense and infrastructure development often benefit the elite and multinational corporations, while crucial sectors such as agriculture, education, health, and small business development remain underfunded. This imbalance perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality, tearing at the social fabric of our nation and undermining social cohesion.”

He also condemned the opaque and closed-door nature of the policy-making process surrounding the Finance Bill. “When policies like the Finance Bill are drafted behind closed doors, without genuine consultation with the citizens they will affect most, the very democratic principles upon which Kenya was founded are undermined. Citizens must be involved in decision-making processes that impact their lives; otherwise, policies risk being detached from reality and lacking legitimacy.”

The crowd responded enthusiastically, erupting into applause and cheers as Ogolla called for urgent reforms and a shift towards more inclusive governance. “We must demand transparency, accountability, and policies rooted in social justice. The voices of the mwananchi—those most affected by economic decisions—must be heard and considered at every stage of policy formulation.”

Concluding his speech with a rallying cry, Ogolla urged Kenyans to unite and actively participate in civic engagement. “We have the power to effect change—through peaceful protests, advocacy, civic education, and holding our leaders accountable. Kenya’s future depends on our collective commitment to fairness, justice, and equitable development. We must ensure that governance serves the people, not just a select few.”