David Ndii, Chairperson of the Presidential Council of Economic Advisors. IMAGE File: David Ndii
In Summary:
- David Ndii claims past government corruption led to the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
- Despite protests, the bill passed to the next legislative stage with significant support.
On Saturday, June 22, David Ndii, Chairperson of the Presidential Council of Economic Advisors, addressed the controversy surrounding this year’s Finance Bill.
In a statement on his X account, Ndii accused previous governments of accumulating substantial debts through corruption, necessitating the creation of the Finance Bill 2024 to address the nation’s financial crisis.
Ndii highlighted the irony of the situation, pointing out that many protesters against the bill were the offspring of those responsible for the corruption that led to the country’s financial woes.
“The irony of these cool kids protesting the Finance Bill they are clueless about is many are children of the plunderers who’ve bankrupted the State,” Ndii remarked.
He urged those demonstrating to reflect on the origins of their wealth, attributing it to corrupt practices of past regimes.
“You want to know where the money went? Look around you, visit your aunties, ask your parents. It bought the houses, the cars, the holidays, paid your college,” Ndii stated.
He emphasized that class warfare tactics, effective once, would not succeed again with the younger generation.
Despite the widespread protests, Ndii asserted that the government would not be swayed by demonstrations to alter its position on the Finance Bill 2024.
He called on the youth to support the government’s proposed tax measures, aimed at revitalizing the country’s economy.
“Here is the low down. The country is going to change and you are welcome to join, but be careful where you throw stones,” Ndii commented.
These statements come in the wake of nationwide protests against the contentious bill.
However, despite the intense public opposition, the bill advanced to the next legislative stage after receiving the backing of 204 Members of Parliament.