Diplomatic Tensions Rise After Ugandan House Torched During Gen Z Protests

In a shocking turn of events during Tuesday’s mass demonstrations, a multi-billion shilling building known as the “Ugandan House,” owned by the Ugandan government, was set ablaze. The protest, led by youth groups under the banner “Gen Z,” was part of a larger outcry against the proposed 2024 Finance Bill.

Several lawyers with offices in the Ugandan House have called on the government to take swift action against those responsible, including the alleged police officers involved. Dunstan Omari, a prominent city-based lawyer, expressed deep concern over the incident, highlighting the potential for a diplomatic rift between Kenya and Uganda.

“This building belongs to the Ugandan government and was renovated just a few weeks ago at a cost of no less than one billion shillings. It’s alleged that police lobbed tear gas inside, causing the fire. Properties have been lost. What kind of relationship are we showing to our good friends in Uganda? The government needs to step up, explain, and take action against those involved,” Omari stated.

Omari, who has an office in the affected building, emphasized the gravity of the situation, warning of a looming diplomatic row between the two nations. He called for dialogue between the youth and the government concerning the controversial 2024 Finance Bill, which has faced significant resistance from both political figures and the general public.

“There is a need for the president to listen to the cries of these young people who have expressed their frustrations through demonstration. Indeed, the government has failed to show accountability,” Omari added. He suggested that suspending the bill temporarily to allow for robust discussions would not harm the government.

Tuesday’s demonstrations in Nairobi saw widespread destruction, including an invasion of the National Assembly. The protests, driven by discontent with the proposed Finance Bill, underscore the growing tension and dissatisfaction among the youth regarding government policies.

As investigations continue, the call for accountability and dialogue remains strong, with stakeholders urging the government to address the underlying issues fueling the unrest. The destruction of Ugandan House has not only raised domestic concerns but also threatens to strain the diplomatic relationship between Kenya and its neighbor, Uganda