Kenya’s President Ruto Fires Cabinet After Protests Over New Taxes
Nairobi, Kenya – Kenyan President William Ruto has dismissed almost his entire cabinet following a series of anti-government protests. Only Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi remain in their positions. Ruto stated that the decision was made after careful consideration and a thorough review of his cabinet.
In May, a bill was introduced to raise taxes to help reduce Kenya’s large debt, leading to widespread protests. At least 39 people died in clashes with police in June. Human rights groups reported that 32 people, including activists and medical personnel, were abducted or detained without cause. A High Court judge condemned these actions and ordered the police and National Intelligence Service to stop such practices.
During a social media session, President Ruto apologized to a political activist who described being assaulted and abducted by officers. Ruto promised to investigate these incidents and ensure law enforcement follows legal procedures.
Deputy President Gachagua accused the National Intelligence Service of being behind recent abductions and extrajudicial killings. Amnesty International reported 136 extrajudicial executions in Kenya in 2023.
The tax bill was passed on June 25 but sparked outrage due to government spending and the high cost of living. Protesters even set parts of Parliament on fire. President Ruto rejected the bill the next day but protests continued, with calls for his resignation.
On Friday, Ruto announced an audit of Kenya’s debt, cuts in government staffing and spending, and mandatory retirements for employees aged 60 and older. Government officials claimed foreign powers funded the protests, but protesters denied this, saying the movement is led by the youth and crosses societal lines.
