Kenya's New Cabinet Sworn In Amid Ongoing Protests: A Critical Turn for Ruto
On Thursday, a new cabinet was sworn in Kenya, marking a significant yet controversial moment in President William Ruto's administration. This reshuffle comes on the heels of Ruto's decision to dismiss all ministers—save for Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi—following weeks of tumultuous protests that erupted across the nation in mid-July.
These protests, which began in response to a proposed tax reform, have gained momentum over the past few weeks, leading to widespread unrest in the capital city, Nairobi. After the government withdrew the tax reform amidst escalating demonstrations, the situation intensified as citizens shifted their focus to demanding Ruto’s resignation.
In a move perceived as politically strategic, Ruto reinstated some former ministers while also filling other cabinet positions with members of the opposition. Many observers are approaching this cabinet formation with skepticism, as they believe that no significant change in direction or policy is anticipated from the new appointments.
Demonstrators continue to flood the streets of Nairobi, reiterating their calls for the president's resignation. Reports suggest that the police have been responding aggressively, deploying tear gas against crowds and even targeting journalists attempting to cover the protests. Activists have been arrested, and vendors have been forcibly dispersed from downtown areas, creating a tense atmosphere in the capital.
In a bid to control the growing unrest, police have set up roadblocks on the main roads leading out of the city, effectively impeding young people from attending the protests in the city center.
As Kenya navigates this turbulent political landscape, the question remains: Will the actions taken by President Ruto and his new cabinet appease the discontented public, or do they signal a continuation of the strained dynamics between the citizens and their government?
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