Kenyan President William Ruto has taken a significant step in addressing the ongoing protests in the country by appointing the first 11 members of his Cabinet. This move comes after weeks of demonstrations that initially began as opposition to a finance bill proposing new taxes but later escalated to calls for the president's resignation due to governance issues.
President Ruto has retained six former ministers in key positions such as defense and interior, signaling continuity in crucial portfolios. However, the appointment of a finance minister, responsible for the contentious budget, is still pending. The government's decision to introduce new taxes has been defended as necessary to manage the increasing public debt and boost internal revenue collection.
The interior ministry, which oversees the police force, has faced criticism for its handling of protests, particularly the use of force resulting in casualties. Demonstrators have accused former ministers of incompetence, corruption, and lavish lifestyles amidst economic challenges.
Opposition members have expressed skepticism towards the formation of a broad-based government, labeling it a betrayal of the people's demands for change. The opposition coalition has distanced itself from the move, emphasizing the need for genuine reforms rather than cosmetic changes.
The protests, led by a diverse group of young activists, have been characterized by calls for accountability, good governance, and systemic change. The demonstrations have been marred by violence, with reports of over 50 fatalities and hundreds of injuries since their inception.
Despite a court ruling suspending a police ban on protests in the capital, Nairobi, tensions remain high as the country navigates through a period of political uncertainty and social unrest.
