Rosalind Evans
Kenya was once again engulfed in protests as police fired tear gas on demonstrators in response to President William Ruto’s recent U-turn on controversial tax plans. The “One Million People March” demonstrations have seen widespread calls for significant political and economic reforms.
A Nation in Turmoil
The protests erupted on Thursday, with participants blocking roads leading to Nairobi and threatening to occupy the State House, the president’s office, and residence. President Ruto had announced on Wednesday that he would not sign the finance bill, stating he had been “listening keenly” to the concerns of the Kenyan people. This decision followed intense protests, which resulted in the deaths of at least 23 individuals, as reported by a civil society organization.
Despite Ruto’s announcement, the protests continued unabated. Security forces established roadblocks and heavily fortified areas around the capital. Maria, a protester from Nairobi, expressed the sentiment of many, stating, “It’s more than about the finance bill now. They’re killing us as young people for what? We come in peace.”
Mixed Reactions and Continued Unrest
Though the protests were named the “One Million People March,” the turnout was lower than anticipated in Nairobi’s central business district due to the heavy police presence. Officers were seen shouting at protesters to “go home” in Swahili, further dissuading large crowds from forming.
The protesters’ demands are varied. Some are calling for President Ruto’s resignation due to his failure to withdraw the finance bill earlier, which could have prevented the loss of lives. Others are seeking justice for the deceased protesters and the recall of lawmakers who supported the bill. “I want them to listen to me,” another protester told CNN.
Civic groups like the Law Society of Kenya have called for the removal of Kenya’s inspector general of police and Nairobi’s regional police commander following accusations that officers had shot dead protesters.
Economic Struggles and Political Challenges
As East Africa’s dominant economy, Kenya has been struggling with escalating living costs, spiking food prices, and significant debts. President Ruto defended his plans by stating, “I am not going to preside over a bankrupt country; I am not going to preside over a country in debt distress.”
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) highlighted a “significant shortfall” in Kenya’s “tax revenue collection” and urged the government to adopt measures to increase earnings and reduce borrowing. The finance bill proposed new levies on locally produced products, motor vehicles, and mobile money transfer fees. Despite Ruto shelving some of these taxes last week, the public remains angry and continues to demand the complete withdrawal of the bill.
The Path Forward
Ruto’s leadership faces a critical test as the ongoing protests suggest that policy reversals alone may not be sufficient to calm the unrest. Analyst Herman Manyora from the University of Nairobi emphasized the need for more substantial reforms. “The way forward is for the president to go a little more than he has done now to get the goodwill of the people,” Manyora said. “He needs to reshuffle his cabinet and economic advisers, which will send a signal that will create the goodwill required. At that point, a government-led conversation can take place.”
Ruto, whose rise to the presidency was significantly supported by youth voters, expressed his intention to engage with young people to hear their ideas on solving the nation’s economic issues. However, Manyora cautioned that this engagement would be challenging, stating, “They (young people) feel betrayed. That’s what is fueling this riot.”
The recent protests in Kenya highlight the deep-seated issues within the country, both economically and politically. President Ruto’s ability to navigate this turbulent period will be crucial for Kenya’s stability. The situation calls for immediate policy changes and a deeper engagement with the public to rebuild trust and ensure long-term solutions.
