President William Ruto of Kenya has announced significant austerity measures in response to nationwide protests, including the elimination of the budget for the offices of the first and second ladies.
In a live broadcast, Ruto outlined these measures, which also include dissolving 47 state agencies and halting non-essential official travel.
Ruto stated, “The number of government advisors will be immediately reduced by 50%,” and confirmed the removal of operational budgets for the offices of the first lady, second lady, and the prime cabinet secretary’s wife.
He also emphasized a suspension on non-essential travel for state and public officers and prohibited their participation in harambee fundraising events.
As part of the austerity drive, Ruto announced the dissolution of 47 state corporations with overlapping functions, ensuring that affected staff would be transferred to other ministries.
These measures come in the wake of intense protests against the Finance Bill, which disrupted commerce for three weeks and escalated into the occupation of parliament and violent clashes with police.
The police used tear gas, water cannons, and live ammunition against protesters. Footage of police firing on protesters and images of casualties sparked global outrage.
Under 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 (ICC).
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported 39 deaths, numerous injuries, and disappearances, blaming the police for excessive force.
Migori County Governor Ochillo Ayacko condemned the police brutality, recounting instances of officers shooting at fleeing protesters.
In response, President Ruto denied responsibility for the violence, asserting that he had not sanctioned lethal police actions.
Meanwhile, Kenyan authorities have issued warrants for anti-Finance Bill protesters as demonstrations continue unabated.
