Kenyan President William Ruto has taken a significant step by dismissing almost all of his Cabinet ministers in response to weeks of protests over high taxes and poor governance. In a televised address, President Ruto announced the removal of Cabinet ministers and the attorney general, emphasizing his commitment to forming a new government that is lean and efficient.
The decision to dismiss the Cabinet came after widespread unrest in the country, with protesters expressing dissatisfaction with the government's performance. The protests, which escalated following the passage of a finance bill proposing tax increases, resulted in more than 30 deaths and calls for the president's resignation.
President Ruto stated that the new government would focus on accelerating the implementation of radical programs to address issues such as debt, job creation, and corruption. He also highlighted the need to eliminate wastage and duplication within government agencies.
Critics have accused President Ruto of appointing political allies to ministerial positions instead of technocrats, leading to concerns about competence and corruption within various ministries. The dismissal of Cabinet ministers marks a significant shift in the country's political landscape and has been described as a necessary step to address public discontent.
In addition to the Cabinet dismissals, President Ruto announced austerity measures, including the dissolution of state corporations with overlapping functions and the withdrawal of funding for certain government offices. These measures are aimed at saving money and promoting accountability within the government.
Analysts have praised President Ruto's actions as a bold move to address the challenges facing Kenya and restore public confidence in the government. This marks the first time a sitting president has dismissed Cabinet ministers under the country's new constitution, signaling a commitment to accountability and transparency in governance.
The dismissal of Cabinet ministers comes at a critical juncture for Kenya, with the government facing mounting pressure to address issues of corruption, high taxes, and economic challenges. President Ruto's decision to overhaul the Cabinet reflects a willingness to listen to the concerns of the people and take decisive action to address them.
