Philip Karanja, CEO of Philit Productions, sparked significant debate among Kenyans with a bold message during the Finance Bill protests.
The renowned filmmaker and director joined thousands in Nairobi as part of the ‘Occupy Parliament’ movement, showing his solidarity with the public’s opposition to the Finance Bill 2024.
The demonstrations, aimed at contesting the Finance Bill 2024, drew a diverse crowd, including several celebrities, who marched to express their concerns.
Critics argue that the bill could adversely affect ordinary citizens, bringing together people from different backgrounds in protest.
Karanja, a father of one, carried a placard that struck a chord with many protesters and fans alike. It bore the message, “Ata bado sijapona and am on my second divorce with the government” (I have not even healed and I’m already going through my second divorce with the government).
This heartfelt statement, expressing his frustration with the government, quickly gained traction online, earning him acclaim for his bravery and honesty.
Karanja’s public stance during the protests follows nearly a year after his separation from his former wife, actress Kate Kamau, also known as Kate Actress.
The couple, who were married for more than five years, announced their split in September 2022.
In a joint statement posted on their Instagram stories, Karanja and Kamau disclosed that they had decided to end their marriage some time earlier but had initially chosen to keep it private.
The statement read, “We came to a conclusion to end our marriage a long while ago and separated. We sincerely request everyone to respect our privacy for us and our children. Signed Kate and Phil.”
Karanja and Kamau had exchanged vows in a lavish ceremony at the Windsor Golf Hotel and Country Club in November 2017.
