Kenya: Pres. Ruto Withdraws Tax Reforms After Deadly Protests

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Above: Kenyan anti-riot police use tear gas and water cannons to disperse demonstrators during protests against the current government's finance bill on June 25, 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya. Image copyright: Donwilson Odhiambo/Contributor/Getty Images News via Getty Images

The Facts

  • Kenyan Pres. William Ruto has withdrawn a finance bill passed by parliament on Tuesday, which included tax increases, following a week of clashes between police and protesters in at least 35 of the country's 47 counties.

  • In a TV address on Wednesday, Ruto said that "the people have spoken" and that he will not sign the contentious legislation. He added that he will now enter into a dialog with the Kenyan youth.

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The Spin

Narrative A

Ruto's decision to abandon the planned tax hikes and incorporate the protesters' demands into the "Finance Bill 2024" proves that he is a democratic leader for whom people's will is paramount. In light of the tragic loss of life, the IMF will assist the Kenyan government in addressing its serious economic challenges and improving its financial prospects. Only robust, sustainable, and inclusive growth will ensure dignity and prosperity for all Kenyans.

Kenyans.co.ke

Narrative B

Ruto's U-turn on the proposed tax hikes is a victory for Kenya's civil society, which exercised its democratic right to protest and was met with massive state violence. Ruto is a puppet of the notorious IMF and its austerity agenda, which is squeezing the people to generate "growth." To consolidate the national budget and create prosperity for all Kenyans, Ruto should first tackle corruption and nepotism and address the people's legitimate concerns.

Citizen Digital

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