In response to widespread protests and escalating public discontent, Kenyan President William Ruto announced significant cuts to the federal budget and other governmental reforms. The move is seen as a major concession following violent demonstrations sparked by a controversial tax bill.
The protests, which have reportedly resulted in dozens of deaths, forced Ruto to retract a finance bill aimed at raising $2.7 billion through increased taxes to pay off national debt. Instead, he proposed cutting $1.39 billion from the budget and covering the shortfall through borrowing. This compromise includes eliminating 47 redundant state corporations, halving the number of government advisors, and suspending the appointment of chief administrative secretaries.
Ruto also announced the immediate retirement of public servants aged 60 and above, a 12-month suspension on government vehicle purchases (excluding security agencies), and a halt to nonessential travel for state officials. Furthermore, operations of the offices of the first lady, the spouse of the deputy president, and the prime cabinet secretary will no longer be funded by government resources.
These measures address several demands made by protesters. Additionally, Ruto has commissioned an independent task force to conduct a comprehensive, forensic audit of Kenya’s public debt. This audit aims to provide transparency on the extent of the debt and how public funds have been utilized, as well as to offer recommendations for sustainable debt management.
The protests have resulted in nearly 40 deaths and 360 injuries nationwide, according to Kenya’s National Commission on Human Rights.
