In a troubling turn of events, Kenya is experiencing significant internet connectivity issues as protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2024 intensify across the nation.
Users are reporting widespread disruptions, particularly affecting social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where loading times have dramatically increased.
These digital disruptions are occurring alongside physical demonstrations, adding a new dimension to the ongoing civil unrest.
Internet Watchdog Confirms Connectivity Issues
NetBlocks, a respected global internet monitor, has officially confirmed these reports. In a statement that has raised alarm among digital rights advocates, NetBlocks declared:
“Live network data show a major disruption to internet connectivity in Kenya; the incident comes amidst a deadly crackdown by the police on #RejectFinanceBill2024 protesters a day after authorities claimed there would be no internet shutdown.”
The report also indicates that the internet disruptions initially observed in Kenya have extended beyond its borders, affecting users in Uganda and Burundi. This development suggests a potentially broader strategy to limit information flow in the region, particularly concerning the ongoing protests in Kenya.
Also Read: Amnesty Kenya calls for uninterrupted internet during Finance Bill 2024 protests
Despite these occurrences, the Communication Authority (CA) of Kenya had previously assured the public that no internet shutdown was planned. CA Director General and CEO David Mugonyi stated:
“Such actions would be a betrayal of the constitution as a whole, the freedom of expression in particular and our own ethos.”
The disconnect between the government’s assurances and the current situation has led to increased skepticism among the populace.
Civil Society Raises Alarm
Prior to the onset of these disruptions, Amnesty Kenya, in coalition with 27 other Kenyan associations representing diverse sectors including content creators, lawyers, medical officers, and human rights defenders, had voiced concerns about potential internet restrictions. The group emphasized that such actions would:
“undermine the legitimate rights of people to organize, demonstrate and participate in policy-making processes.”
This preemptive warning highlights the vital role of internet access in modern civic engagement and the potential consequences of its disruption.
Finance Bill 2024: The Root of Unrest
At the heart of the protests is the Finance Bill 2024, a controversial piece of legislation proposed by the Kenyan government. The bill aims to raise an additional $2.7 billion in tax revenue for the 2024/25 fiscal year, with the stated goal of reducing the budget deficit and limiting state borrowing.
However, this proposal has met with fierce opposition from citizens concerned about its economic impact on an already strained populace.
Potential Effects of Internet Disruptions
The reported internet disruptions, if prolonged, could have far-reaching consequences for Kenya:
- Economic Impact: In an increasingly digital economy, internet disruptions can severely hamper business operations, e-commerce, and financial transactions, potentially leading to significant economic losses.
- Information Blackout: Restricted internet access limits the flow of information, making it difficult for citizens to stay informed about protest developments and government responses.
- Hindered Coordination: Protesters rely heavily on social media and messaging apps to organize and coordinate their efforts. Disruptions could impede their ability to mobilize effectively.
- International Attention: Internet shutdowns often draw global criticism, potentially damaging Kenya’s international reputation and relationships.
- Education Interruption: With many educational institutions relying on online resources, internet disruptions could affect students’ ability to access learning materials and attend virtual classes.
- Healthcare Challenges: Telemedicine services and health information systems could be compromised, affecting healthcare delivery during a time of potential unrest.
- Democratic Process: Limited internet access could be seen as an attempt to stifle free speech and peaceful assembly, core tenets of democratic societies.
As Kenya grapples with the dual challenges of widespread protests and internet disruptions, the situation remains fluid and tense.
The reported connectivity issues add another layer of complexity to an already volatile political landscape, raising questions about digital rights, freedom of expression, and the government’s commitment to open dialogue.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether these internet disruptions are temporary glitches or part of a more concerning pattern. Stakeholders from all sectors of Kenyan society, as well as international observers, will be closely monitoring both the status of internet connectivity and the government’s response to the ongoing demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2024.
