Ruto gives in to young Kenyans’ demands

Kenyan President, William Ruto, has withdrawn the controversial Finance Bill, which sparked violent protests across the country, resulting in over 20 deaths.

The bill aimed to raise taxes to pay off government debt, but demonstrators feared it would exacerbate economic hardships.

Protests escalated on Tuesday when police fired tear gas and live ammunition at demonstrators attempting to storm Parliament.

Addressing the nation in Nairobi yesterday, Ruto changed tune and admitted to bowing to pressure.

He announced cost-saving measures, including austerity plans for his office, the executive, and parliament.

Press Briefing, State House, Nairobi. https://t.co/BYWljpfcGT

— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) June 26, 2024

Kenya, known for its stability, has seen growing protests led by young people.

Amnesty Kenya has commended the youth for rejecting the bill and demonstrating peacefully.

However, the NGO has also called for President Ruto to be held accountable for the deaths, stating that while he was not present on the streets, the responsibility lies squarely with him for the killing of young protesters.

@ReformsGroup Joint Statement on #RejectFinanceBill2024 Protests: We have recorded 23 deaths caused by police shootings nationwide. There were over 50 arrests, 22 abductions and over 300 injuries. https://t.co/tm6kEjz46s pic.twitter.com/cy4FA7KFYO

— Amnesty Kenya (@AmnestyKenya) June 26, 2024

The group has further reported 50 arrests, 22 abductions and 300 injuries.

Calls meanwhile remain for Ruto to vacate office.

BREAKING: The Kenyan Youths calls for the immediate resignation of President William Ruto vows to take their protest to the State House tomorrow unstoppable. pic.twitter.com/3K9mrd2xQd

— Peter Obi Grassroots Mobilization. (@PO_GrassRootM) June 26, 2024

The brave move by young Kenyan protestors has inspired young Africans, with Ghanaians set to also be mobilising.

The Ghanaian youths are also mobilizing for a nationwide protest against bad governance in the country. pic.twitter.com/NHqi6FgIvL

— Peter Obi Grassroots Mobilization. (@PO_GrassRootM) June 26, 2024

Written by Naomi Kobbie