Kenyans experience internet disruptions amid heated protests against Finance Bill 2024

Kenyans are experiencing intermittent internet outages and slowed connectivity across major mobile networks.

This coincided with heightened protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.

In a customer notice on Tuesday, June 25, Safaricom PLC - Kenya's largest telecommunications company - confirmed disruptions to two of its undersea cables delivering internet traffic into and out of the country.

The company stated it had activated redundancy measures to minimize service interruptions but acknowledged customers may face reduced speeds and issues with apps like M-PESA and its own platforms.

Safaricom advised using alternative USSD codes for M-PESA services and SIM toolkits, thanking customers for their patience.

However, the timing of the cable disruptions has raised eyebrows among critics of the proposed legislation.

Mass demonstrations have been held across the country opposing several provisions in the Finance Bill, which would significantly increase taxes on petroleum products, raise value added tax, and impose new excise duties.

Protesters argue the measures will disproportionately hurt poorer Kenyans already struggling with inflation and the high cost of living.

Controversial Kenyan lawyer and activist Dr. Miguna Miguna was scathing in his reaction to Safaricom's announcement.

In a post via X, Miguna stated "Zakayo and his stooges at Safaricom PLC think that Kenyans are children. The revolution will continue, whether Williams Ruto interferes with Internet, MPESA services, or declares a State of Emergency. No brake. No reverse gear. #RutoMustGo. #RejectFinanceBill2024."