Kenya’s President William Ruto has announced a plan to form a new “broad-based government” in response to weeks of deadly anti-government protests triggered by an unpopular tax bill. The demonstrations, which resulted in more than 40 deaths, initially began as a reaction to the proposed tax increases. However, after the government withdrew the tax proposals, the protests evolved to demand President Ruto’s resignation.
In his address on Friday, President Ruto revealed a list of 11 ministers for his proposed cabinet, six of whom were from the cabinet he had dismissed just the week before. Despite facing criticism for including figures from the old cabinet, President Ruto emphasized the need for a government that would drive economic transformation and inclusive growth.
Among the notable names put forward by President Ruto is Kithure Kindiki, who is slated to resume his position as the interior minister, despite calls for his resignation over the handling of the protests by the police and armed forces. Other key ministries include Debra Mlongo Barasa for health, Julius Migos Ogamba for education, and Aden Barre Duale for defense.
President Ruto’s plan to include opposition lawmakers in his new government has caused division within the opposition. While former prime minister Raila Odinga’s coalition was expected to receive seven positions in the cabinet, some party leaders, including Martha Karua, have expressed reluctance to participate in a coalition government with President Ruto.
As the country awaits further announcements on the composition of the new government, tensions remain high, with calls for accountability and reform echoing among the Kenyan populace.
