Kenyan President William Ruto Dismisses Cabinet After Anti-Government Protests
Following weeks of widespread anti-government protests, Kenyan President William Ruto has taken the dramatic step of dismissing almost his entire cabinet. The decision, announced in a televised address to the nation, also includes plans to form a “broad-based government” through consultations across various sectors and political formations.
The protests, initially triggered by proposed tax hikes, escalated into violent clashes as demonstrators voiced their dissatisfaction with Ruto’s administration. The President’s move to dismiss his cabinet comes after facing mounting criticism over alleged incompetence, lavish displays of wealth, and a series of scandals.
Ruto’s efforts to appease protesters with sharp cuts to government spending have so far failed to quell the anger, with calls for his resignation growing louder on social media and in smaller rallies across the country. The financial strain on Kenya, with public debt amounting to 70% of its GDP, adds to the pressure on the government to address protestors’ demands.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the protests and political uncertainty, Ruto’s decision marks a crucial turning point in Kenya’s current socio-political landscape.