Official announcements from the Kenyan government or major news outlets like BBC, CNN, or Reuters

Kenya Faces Unrest as Ruto Abandons $2.7 Billion Tax Hikes, Announces Austerity Measures Amid 41 Deaths

Jul 5, 2024, 11:14 AM

Kenya is experiencing significant political and social unrest following President William Ruto's decision to abandon proposed tax hikes amounting to $2.7 billion. The withdrawal of these tax hikes, initially intended to address a budget gap, has led to widespread protests across the country. Riot police have been deployed in Nairobi and other cities, using tear gas to disperse demonstrators. The protests, which began as opposition to the tax hikes, have escalated into broader anti-government demonstrations, with calls for President Ruto's resignation. In response to the unrest, Ruto has announced several austerity measures, including budget cuts of 177 billion shillings, the dissolution of 47 state agencies, and the suspension of non-essential travel for government officials. Additionally, Ruto has appointed a task force, led by Nancy Onyango, to conduct a forensic audit of Kenya's public debt of at least 1.2 trillion KSH. Despite these measures, the protests continue, with demonstrators demanding greater government accountability and an end to police brutality. The clashes have resulted in at least 41 deaths, primarily due to police actions during the protests. Ruto also stated that the fiscal deficit will increase to 4.6% of GDP for the 2024/25 year.