Kitui South Member of Parliament Rachel Nyamai faced criticism after she rebuked a girl she sponsors for participating in anti-finance bill protests without a genuine motive.
During a session at the National Assembly on Wednesday, June 19, Nyamai revealed that the girl had previously contacted her expressing concerns over the Finance Bill 2024, particularly regarding motor vehicle taxes and VAT on bread, which had since been removed by the government.
Nyamai questioned why the girl joined the protests despite these taxes being dropped. The MP recounted, “I saw one of the girls I pay school fees for in the streets. She had messaged me the day before, and I asked her, you mentioned it was about taxation on motor vehicles and bread, so why are you on the street?”
Nyamai’s remarks sparked backlash as she criticized the girl for allegedly participating in the protests merely to create content for TikTok views.
“I have just shared the video with CPA Mbadi. The girl told me that she wasn’t on the street because of the bill; she was doing TikTok. She was swinging very nicely. She said she wanted to get views for TikTok,” Nyamai stated.
Here are some of the reactions from Kenyans to Nyamai’s remarks:
- Netizens expressed anger, criticizing Nyamai for implying that protesters lacked legitimate intentions.
- Some suggested supporting the education of the girl sponsored by Nyamai.
Rachael Nyamai ,Kitui South Mp amesema ilikua Jana tunatafuta views za TikTok. Some one deliver a slap through the internet imfikie.
— Babylonian (@LilithBlack25) June 19, 2024
As Usual salimia yeye through 0720451803 #RejectFinanceBill2024#OccupyMombasa pic.twitter.com/yFIWsQek6y
Wale wanatafuta number ya MPig Rachael Nyamai ni 0720 451803 or 0735 595100.
— Patrick Safari (@patricksafariR) June 19, 2024
Ya Bwana Yake ni 0715 497157
Call and Text her. Na Mimi nimeanza..
Her statement is not the position of the people of Kitui South.
Cc @gabrieloguda , #OccupyParliament #RejectFinanceBill2024 pic.twitter.com/0h9bHMat8h
