President William Ruto of Kenya has responded to nationwide protests by cutting the budget for the offices of the First Lady and Second Lady.
In a live broadcast, he announced extensive austerity measures, including dissolving 47 state agencies and halting non-essential official travel.
President Ruto stated, “The number of government advisors will be immediately reduced by 50%,” and confirmed the removal of operations from the First Lady, Second Lady, and Prime Cabinet Wife’s offices.
He also emphasized suspending non-essential travel for state and public officers and prohibiting their participation in harambee fundraising events.
Ruto announced the dissolution of 47 state corporations with overlapping functions, ensuring affected staff will be transferred to other ministries.
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These measures follow intense protests against the Finance Bill, which disrupted commerce for three weeks and escalated into occupations of parliament and violent clashes with police. Police used tear gas, water cannons, and live ammunition against protesters.
Footage of police firing on protesters and images of casualties sparked global outrage. Amid mounting pressure, Ruto withdrew the controversial Finance Bill last Wednesday. Amnesty International accused him of using snipers against protesters and called for his trial at the International Criminal Court.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported 39 deaths, numerous injuries, and disappearances, blaming police for excessive force.
Migori County Governor Ochillo Ayacko condemned police brutality, recounting instances of officers shooting fleeing protesters. President Ruto denied responsibility for the violence, asserting he hadn’t sanctioned lethal police actions.
As demonstrations continue, Kenyan authorities have issued warrants for anti-Finance Bill protesters.