MP John Kiarie Apologizes to Kenyans for Claiming Finance Bill Protests were Fake: “I Deeply Regret”
In Summary:
- In the past, MP John Kiarie claimed that photos used to depict the protests for Finance Bill 2024 were staged.
- Kiarie contended that his experience as a graphic designer allowed him to discern between a fake and a real image.
- The Member of Parliament apologized via social media after receiving a lot of backlash from people who didn’t agree with what he had said.
John Kiarie, the Member of Parliament for Dagoretti South Constituency, has apologized on social media for his comments against the Occupy Parliament demonstrations.
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What did John Kiarie say about the protests?
Kiarie asserted that the Occupy Parliament demonstrations on Tuesday, June 18, were fabricated. He declared on Wednesday, June 19, that parliamentary decisions are not swayed by outside influences.
The MP asserted that a parliamentary committee had been consulting with Kenyans regarding the Finance Bill 2024 well before the alleged fake protest.
He also pointed out that people were manipulating internet photos and posting them as Gen Z images.
What Did Kiarie Include in His Apology?
In a statement obtained by dailybrief.co.ke, the MP offered a heartfelt apology for his comments about the protests and the legitimacy of certain images.
He admitted that his remarks during the intense debate on the Finance Bill 2024 were unnecessary, misguided, and insensitive.
“I deeply regret my utterances. After reflection and also understanding the anger and frustration that exists in our nation. Anger that stems from decades of many unresolved pertinent and potent national issues,” he said.
Kiarie further emphasized the significance of vigilance and public agitation for a better Kenya.
He also praised and honored the bravery and creativity of the younger generation in advocating for change through innovative methods like social media platforms.
“I am sincerely sorry for any provocation hurt or affront that my words may have caused. I have definitely learnt a lot from this and also from all the active listening I have done since.”
John Kiarie Heckled at Funeral Service
Earlier, TUKO.co.ke reported that MP Kiarie faced heckling while attending a funeral service.
The MP’s presence at the funeral did not go as anticipated.
While expressing condolences to the bereaved family, he was unexpectedly booed by the attendees.
Initially, Kiarie ignored the disturbance and continued his speech, but a woman intervened to quiet the crowd.
Key Facts About Finance Bill 2024 Protests
Elected officials were prevented from speaking to a congregation during a service at the ACK Diocese of Nyahururu.
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii urged President William Ruto to heed the voices of Gen Z, who turned out in large numbers to oppose the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
A viral video featured a young man delivering a powerful spoken word piece criticizing President William Ruto’s administration, sparking intense online debates.
In Other News: Azimio Coalition Totally Rejects Finance Bill 2024 Amid Widespread Protests
MP John Kiarie Apologises to Kenyans for Claiming Finance Bill Protests were Fake: “I Deeply Regret”