Kenyan President William Ruto has retracted his decision to sign the controversial finance bill following mass protests that resulted in the deaths of at least 23 people, according to the Kenyan National Human Rights Commission. In his announcement, Ruto acknowledged the widespread discontent with the bill and emphasized the need to listen to the voices of the Kenyan people.
Despite the withdrawal of the finance bill, protests have continued across Kenya, with demonstrators now demanding Ruto's resignation. Political activist Ikoro Okot stated that the focus of the protests has shifted from opposing the finance bill to calling for the president's departure. Confrontations between demonstrators and police have been reported in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu.
The Kenyan government has faced criticism for its handling of the protests, with accusations of excessive force being used against demonstrators. The US State Department and UN Secretary-General António Guterres have both condemned the violence. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International Kenya, have reported instances of police shooting unarmed protesters and kidnapping social media users linked to the protests.
President Ruto's decision to withdraw the finance bill has been seen by some as a result of international pressure rather than a response to the demands of the protesters. Opposition leader Cornelius Runoh and various observers believe that the involvement of Western countries played a significant role in Ruto's retreat.
Within the Kenyan government, tensions have risen following the finance bill controversy. Vice President Rigathi Gachago has accused the Director-General of the Kenyan Intelligence Service, Nuruddin Haji, of conspiring against him and former President Uhuru Kenyatta. This internal rift poses a new challenge for Ruto, who must now address both the economic issues and the division within his administration.
- The ongoing protests have led to significant disruptions in major cities, with roads blocked and government buildings targeted by demonstrators. The 'million-person march' planned by protesters was largely thwarted by heavy police presence and military checkpoints.
- Human rights activist Boniface Mwangi has called for the cancellation of further protests, arguing that the initial goals have been achieved with the withdrawal of the finance bill. However, other activists believe that continued demonstrations are necessary to address broader issues of governance and accountability.
- The controversy surrounding the finance bill and the subsequent protests have highlighted the economic challenges facing Kenya. The government introduced the bill in an attempt to control public debt, but the proposed tax increases were met with widespread opposition due to the rising cost of living.
- President Ruto's administration now faces the dual challenge of finding alternative solutions to mobilize state resources and addressing the internal conflict within the government. Public Service Minister Musa Kuria has urged Vice President Gachago to take responsibility and work towards resolving the issues rather than escalating tensions.
