Kenyan MP David Gikaria and wife's viral 'I am sorry' t-shirts apologize for supporting controversial Finance Bill 2024 amid public backlash and protests.
Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria and his wife, Violet Nzisa Katua, caused a stir on social media by publicly apologizing for their support of the Finance Bill 2024.
The couple wore matching white t-shirts emblazoned with the words "I am sorry" and "He is sorry, Please forgive him," respectively, in a gesture that quickly went viral following its unveiling on June 28, 2024.
Gikaria's unconventional approach to expressing regret over his stance on the controversial bill, which has sparked widespread protests, has garnered mixed reactions online.
Some netizens viewed the move as genuine, appreciating the rare display of accountability from a politician. However, others criticized the gesture as mere theatrics, questioning the sincerity behind the apology amidst ongoing public discontent.
The Finance Bill 2024 has been contentious, leading to violent demonstrations in the country.
Critics have condemned lawmakers for what they perceive as a disconnect between political decisions and public welfare, with some expressing skepticism over the effectiveness of such apologies in addressing deeper grievances.
On social media, reactions varied widely. Some Nigerians contrasted the Kenyan lawmaker's apology with perceived political insensitivity in Nigeria, lamenting the lack of similar accountability from their own leaders.
Others expressed skepticism about the impact of such gestures, emphasizing the need for substantive action over symbolic apologies.