As protests escalate against the Finance Bill 2024, Anonymous, the renowned hacktivist group, has issued a stern warning to President William Ruto and Kenya’s government. In a video statement on their widely followed X page with 5.1 million followers, Anonymous criticized the government’s move to pass a bill they argue unfairly burdens Kenyan citizens with taxes.
Anonymous addressed the Kenyan government, stating, “Greetings, Citizens of the world. This is a warning message to William Ruto, the Kenyan Government, and all members of parliament from Anonymous. It has come to our attention that there are discussions in parliament to pass the finance bill, which will unfairly tax the citizens of Kenya.”
The Finance Bill 2024 has faced significant opposition in Kenya. Critics contend that the proposed taxes, such as increased VAT on essentials like bread, higher excise duties on petrol, and new levies on mobile money transactions, will disproportionately impact the poor and middle class, exacerbating the already high cost of living.
Anonymous warned of potential consequences, stating, “Soon, there will be an uprising of hackers, many of whom may reside in your home country. Your secrets may no longer be safe, and there is a chance that all these secrets will be exposed to show how corrupt and unjust members of this parliament are, embezzling public funds for personal gain.”
The Anonymous group originated in internet culture around 2003, emerging on platforms like 4chan where users posted anonymously. Known for its anti-establishment and anti-authoritarian stance symbolized by the Guy Fawkes mask from the graphic novel and film V for Vendetta, Anonymous operates without formal hierarchy, allowing anyone to act under its banner.
Over the years, Anonymous has conducted impactful cyber campaigns against entities perceived as corrupt or oppressive. Notable actions include Project Chanology in 2008 against the Church of Scientology, Operation Payback in 2010 supporting internet freedom, and assistance during the Arab Spring uprisings in 2011. They have also targeted extremist groups like ISIS and contributed to combating online child exploitation.
Anonymous continues to be a significant player in online activism, challenging powerful entities and sparking debates on the ethics and efficacy of hacktivism in promoting social and political change.
