Kenya’s President William Ruto has fired all his ministers and the attorney-general after violent protests over a controversial tax bill.
The president said this decision was made after listening to Kenyans and assessing his cabinet’s performance. He plans to form a new government with broad representation.
The deputy president and prime cabinet secretary remain in their positions, as they can’t be fired.
Ruto assured that government functions would continue under senior civil servants while he consults with various sectors to appoint a new cabinet.
Though the constitution doesn’t specify how long a president can operate without a cabinet, experts say Ruto must act quickly to avoid further unrest, especially among the country’s youth.
This sudden move is unusual, happening less than two years into Ruto’s term. Some dismissed ministers had previously faced corruption allegations, but Ruto defended them due to a lack of evidence.
Despite Ruto’s recent austerity measures and the withdrawal of the tax bill, protests have continued, with calls for his resignation trending on social media.
The last complete cabinet dissolution in Kenya occurred in 2005 after a failed constitutional referendum.
Ruto is now under pressure to form an efficient and inclusive government, with opposition leader Raila Odinga and a planned 150-member dialogue panel to address the crisis.
However, young protestors demand more action against corruption and wasteful spending.
As Kenya awaits the new cabinet, the effectiveness of Ruto’s response will determine if the public’s anger subsides. The continued protests reflect a strong desire for accountability and change in the government.
Credit: BBC.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c886g5evlxjo