Kenyan President William Ruto has announced the dismissal of his entire cabinet, excluding the Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua who cannot legally be fired and Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi, and plans to form a “broad-based government” following widespread anti-government protests. The decision comes after peaceful rallies against planned tax increases turned violent, leaving dozens dead and plunging Ruto’s administration into crisis.

Ruto’s Move

In a televised address, Ruto said he would engage in consultations to set up a new government, aiming to address the country’s economic woes, including a massive debt burden of 10 trillion shillings ($78 billion), equivalent to 70% of Kenya’s GDP.

Protests and Crisis

The protests, led by young Kenyans, demanded accountability from the government and an end to corruption. Despite scrapping the tax hikes and announcing austerity measures, Ruto faced continued calls to step down, with demonstrators using the hashtag #RutoMustGo.

Public debt amounts to some 10 trillion shillings ($78 billion), around 70 percent of Kenya’s GDP. The government’s decision to borrow more will result in the fiscal deficit rising from 3.3 percent to 4.6 percent, according to Ruto.

Reaction

The dismissal of the cabinet has been met with mixed reactions, with some welcoming the move as a step towards addressing government inefficiency, while others remain skeptical about the future.

The move is seen as a bold attempt to address the crisis, but its success depends on the efficacy of the new ministers. The protests have subsided, but anger against the government persists, with more demonstrations planned.

International Response

The crisis has led to a downgrade in Kenya’s debt rating by Moody’s, warning of a negative outlook and making borrowing more expensive for the cash-strapped government.

The development comes as a significant test for Ruto’s leadership and his ability to address the economic and political challenges facing Kenya.