Kenya’s President Ruto includes Opposition Ministers in New Cabinet After Protests

Kenya’s president, William Ruto, has added opposition members to his new Cabinet to address governance issues raised during recent violent protests.

Ruto appointed four ministers from the main opposition party, including the minority leader in parliament and the chairman of opposition leader Raila Odinga’s party, despite divisions within the opposition alliance.

Recent unrest in Kenya has led to fatalities, Cabinet dismissals, and calls for Ruto to step down, all stemming from public discontent over proposed tax hikes amidst a challenging economic climate.

The president commended political parties for collaborating to form a diverse cabinet, describing it as a patriotic and historic move towards Kenya’s transformation.

Odinga, who supported dialogue to calm the situation, denied allegations of being influenced by bribes to join Ruto and emphasized solidarity with the protesters until their demands are met.

The opposition clarified that no ongoing discussions were underway to join Ruto’s government and cautioned party members against seeking ministerial roles in opposition to the party’s stance.

While the opposition coalition does not spearhead the protests led by youth activists through social media, it backs the demonstrators’ grievances regarding governance challenges, citing past efforts to engage the government during similar protests.

Ruto has pledged government reforms targeting corruption and extravagance, acknowledging the public’s concerns about the high cost of living.

Since the protests commenced on June 18, figures from the Kenya National Commission for Human Rights indicate over 50 deaths and 413 injuries among protesters.