Kenya’s President William Ruto, under scrutiny amid recent deadly protests that forced the withdrawal of an unpopular tax bill, has taken decisive action by dismissing all his ministers and the attorney-general with immediate effect.
President Ruto cited reflection, listening to public sentiment, and a comprehensive assessment of his cabinet as reasons for the sweeping changes. He emphasized a new direction towards establishing a more inclusive government through extensive consultations.
The dissolution of the cabinet excludes the deputy president, who is legally protected from dismissal, and the prime cabinet secretary, who also serves as the foreign affairs minister.
Ruto assured that government operations would continue smoothly under the oversight of senior civil servants during this transition. He pledged to consult widely across various sectors and political spectrums, both publicly and privately, to form a new government, although he did not specify a timeline for its announcement.
This unprecedented move comes less than two years into Ruto’s presidency. Among those relieved of their positions are three former MPs who joined the cabinet recently. Notably, Defence Minister Aden Duale expressed gratitude to the president for the opportunity to serve Kenya.
Last week’s cabinet meeting, described by local media as the “last supper” for ministers, preceded these developments. Some of the dismissed ministers had been implicated in corruption scandals that had previously led to the suspension of senior officials across several ministries. Despite public pressure, Ruto had previously defended these ministers, citing insufficient evidence for their removal.
President Ruto’s actions follow ongoing anti-government protests demanding accountability and transparency, despite the withdrawal of contentious tax hikes. Some demonstrators have even called for his resignation. Last week, in response to public outcry, Ruto implemented austerity measures across government agencies and halted proposed salary increases for cabinet members and parliamentarians.
In other news – Three pedestrians killed in hit-and-run accidents
Last weekend saw tragic hit-and-run incidents claiming the lives of three pedestrians, prompting intensive police efforts to locate the responsible drivers. According to law, drivers involved in accidents must stop and provide assistance, with severe penalties for failing to comply.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi expressed deep concern and urged the public to come forward with any information that could aid in identifying the drivers. During the weekend, separate incidents occurred resulting in fatalities in Harare and Mutare. One incident on Sunday claimed the life of a 38-year-old man on High Glen Road in Glen Norah, where the driver fled the scene. Read More