Kenyan President William Ruto has dismissed almost his entire cabinet. Ruto confirmed that Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Principal Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi remain in their positions. The decision to dismiss the cabinet has been taken after anti-government protests. The country has seen a wave of anti-government protests since a bill aimed at increasing taxes and reducing Kenya’s debt was introduced in May.
Ruto spoke to reporters from State House Nairobi on Thursday. During this, he told that this decision has been taken after reflection and overall assessment of his cabinet. Despite the progress we have made, I am acutely aware that the people of Kenya have high expectations from me. People believe that this administration can make the most sweeping changes in the history of our country.
According to media reports, referenced by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, some 39 people were killed in clashes with police in June during protests that erupted over a tax increase. At least 32 persons, including activists, medical personnel and social media influencers, were either abducted or detained without any reason. A high court judge condemned the incidents as kidnapping. Also, the President-led police and National Intelligence Service were ordered to stop such actions, citing constitutional violations.
Last Friday, President Ruto had a conversation with a political activist at The President expressed regret and apologized for this. He said this is unacceptable. These alleged kidnappings will be investigated. Pledged to ensure that police follow protocol during arrests.
Let us tell you that a bill to increase taxes was passed by MPs on June 25 with the aim of reducing Kenya’s increasing debt. However, this law caused great anger among Kenyans. The protesters infiltrated the Parliament and set fire to parts of it, leading to a crackdown by the government, resulting in injuries and several being detained. President Ruto rejected the bill the next day, but calls for his resignation continued among protesters.