Nairobi
Wednesday,19 June 2024
By Teddy Makori
Eddie Butita, a well-known comedian and scriptwriter in Kenya, is currently facing backlash from the public for his undecided stance on the controversial Finance Bill.
This bill has sparked significant public outcry, with many Kenyans, including celebrities and politicians, openly opposing it and supporting the ‘Occupy Parliament’ protests.
Butita, who recently accompanied President William Ruto on a state visit to the United States, expressed his thoughts on the Finance Bill in a manner that many found unclear.
He mentioned raising concerns about the bill, especially regarding its impact on the creative economy, and expressed confidence that action would be taken.”
As a responsible citizen, I have raised some issues on the Finance Bill, especially touching on the creative economy,” Butita wrote.
“I have engaged both formally and informally and I am confident action will be taken.
That said, creatives are not opposed to paying taxes, we are just asking for a harmonized approach.” He said.
However, his statements were met with criticism. Many accused him of being too politically correct and not taking a definitive stand.
Social media users pressured him to clearly state whether he supports or opposes the bill.
Wesley Kibande, a prominent online personality, simply asked, “So, Yes or No?” Another critic stated, “Have a stand! It’s either a Yes or No. Kizungu mingi peleka Busia!”Another influencer Brenda Wanjiku echoed these sentiments, accusing Butita of fence-sitting and demanding a straightforward answer.
“This is fence-sitting. It’s either Yes or No. What do you mean by harmonized approach? Stop the NGO talk and address the matters directly! It’s either that or you’re in bed with the oppressor!” she said.
In an attempt to clarify his position, Butita tweeted, “Article 37….” This tweet only added to the confusion, as many questioned why he did not clearly explain the relevance of the article, which pertains to the right to assemble, demonstrate, and present petitions to public authorities.
An unimpressed fan pointed out, “Article 37: Everybody has the right, peaceably and unarmed, to assemble, to demonstrate, to picket, and to present petitions to public authorities… But huwezi sema hivyo coz wamekupromise utaenda kupiga comedy huko California.
Tuone nani atakuwa anacheka hizo jokes zako…”The criticism of Butita is part of a larger trend where public figures are being pressured to take clear stands on important issues.
DJ Joe Mfalme also faced backlash for his stance against the Finance Bill, and online personality Andrew Kibe was criticized for showing support for the bill in a debate he hosted.
As public discontent with the Finance Bill grows, the demand for clear and decisive opinions from public figures is likely to continue.
For Eddie Butita, the pressure remains high to clarify his position and align himself more clearly with the sentiments of many Kenyans who are vocal in their opposition to the bill.