Elected in 2022 pledging to cut corruption, shore up the country's faltering economy and help the poor, the embattled Mr Ruto now faces an unprecedented rebellion against his finance bill - legislation he says he is an essential part of his plan to build the nation.
In the capital, the Nairobi governor's office, city hall and the country's parliament have this afternoon all been set ablaze.And at the end of a day of chaos and panic across the country, often set against the sound of teargas and at times live fire from police, there is no doubt their fury has been heard.
Kenya secured a restructuring of its international debt commitments earlier this year – something which immediately pushed a surge in the value of its currency, the shilling. The finance bill, which was due to become law on Monday, originally brought in dozens of new or increased taxes on everything from car ownership and financial transactions to sanitary pads.
And for those on the street, there's a third solution available to the government beyond cutting services or raising taxes.Many blame the country’s financial woes on corruption, with taxpayers wary of paying more amid a lack of trust over the transparency of the state.He rose from the deputy presidency to the presidency in the 2022 elections, and with a focus on green energy and tech he has certainly got new ideas about where he wants to take Kenya.
When Mr Ruto addressed the nation in his inauguration speech, he spoke directly to the country’s politically-active youth.
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Kenya: President Ruto Responds to Youth Protests Against Finance Bill 2024President William Ruto has addressed the ongoing protests by Kenyan youths against the Finance Bill 2024, expressing his pride in their peaceful and united stance.
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