Kenyan President Wililam Ruto dismisses most of his cabinet following anti-tax protests

Kenya's President William Ruto has made a significant move by dismissing his entire cabinet, except for the foreign minister, in response to nationwide protests and escalating crisis during his two-year tenure. The protests, led by the youth, initially against planned tax hikes, turned violent resulting in the deaths of at least 39 people in clashes with the police. Ruto, in a televised address to the nation, announced the cabinet overhaul and pledged to form a broad-based government through extensive consultations across various sectors and political formations. The dismissal of the attorney general was also part of the sweeping changes, meeting the demands of Kenyans seeking accountability and transparency in governance. The protests and pressure on Ruto stemmed from a combination of factors, including demands from international lenders like the IMF to reduce deficits and the population's struggle with the rising cost of living. Ruto's proposal of spending cuts and additional borrowing to address the budget deficit caused by the withdrawn tax hikes has raised concerns about meeting IMF targets. The move to dissolve the cabinet was seen as a step towards justice by some activists, but the focus now shifts to the appointment of new ministers who are accountable to the constitution and the rule of law. The decision to dismiss the cabinet comes after weeks of unrest and demands for accountability from the government, particularly targeting corruption within the administration. Ruto's acknowledgment of high expectations from the Kenyan people and the need for extensive transformation signals a pivotal moment for his leadership. The formation of a new government through consultations aims to address key issues such as debt management, job creation, governance efficiency, and anti-corruption measures. Despite the cabinet reshuffle, Ruto assured that government operations would continue uninterrupted, with further measures to be announced in due course. The dissolution of the cabinet has been met with mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a positive step towards addressing public grievances and restoring trust in the government. The role of the deputy president and the prime cabinet secretary, who were not affected by the dismissals, adds a layer of continuity amidst the significant changes. The aftermath of the cabinet overhaul remains uncertain, with questions lingering about the effectiveness of the new government in addressing the challenges facing Kenya and whether the protests will persist in the absence of the former ministers.