MORE PROTESTS EXPECTED IN KENYA DESPITE PRESIDENT RUTO U-TURN

Thu 27 June 2024:

Kenyan police have set up roadblocks around the presidential palace following intense protests. Reuters reported an army vehicle in the capital’s central business district, a hotspot for Tuesday’s demonstrations, as the government deployed the military to assist police in managing the situation.

On Wednesday, President Ruto made a surprising reversal by withdrawing controversial tax hikes after earlier deadly protests. Addressing the nation, Ruto stated he would not sign the bill and would instead withdraw it, acknowledging the public’s opposition. “The people have spoken,” he said, pledging to engage with the nation’s youth.

This marked a significant shift from his firm stance the previous night, where he likened some demonstrators to “criminals.” The protests had turned violent on Tuesday, with Parliament partly set ablaze and at least 22 people reported killed across the country.

The Standard reported heightened security in the central business district and other areas, with officers patrolling major highways. The High Court is set to hear a challenge to the government’s order to deploy the army to the capital.

Despite Ruto’s announcement, skepticism persists. Critics note that if the president does not sign the bill, it will automatically become law within three weeks unless Parliament retracts it—a process complicated by Parliament’s recess until late July.

Ruto’s previous promises during his presidential campaign to implement policies benefiting Kenyans have been undermined by the removal of crucial subsidies, leading to feelings of betrayal among his supporters.

In Mombasa, Emmanuel Giggs Tata, 20, was among the demonstrators but tragically died after inhaling tear gas. According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, 22 people have died due to the protests, with 19 in Nairobi.

Protesters have pledged to “occupy State House,” though there’s division on how to proceed. Social justice activist Boniface Mwangi supported the demonstrations but warned against invading the State House, fearing it could lead to more violence.

The International Monetary Fund expressed concern over the events and is monitoring the situation closely, reaffirming its commitment to support Kenya in overcoming its economic challenges and achieving sustainable growth.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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