Kenya’s President William Ruto has acknowledged the necessity of increasing borrowing to sustain government operations following the decisive rejection of a highly unpopular finance bill aimed at raising revenue through taxes.
Despite its passage in Parliament, the bill was withdrawn by the president after widespread violent protests that resulted in deaths and damage to parliament buildings.
Ruto disclosed on Sunday that Kenya would need to borrow one trillion shillings to maintain government functions.
He also emphasized the need for spending cuts across various governmental sectors, including his own office, as well as those of the first lady and the deputy president’s spouse.
Previously, the government planned to borrow approximately 600 billion shillings while generating 350 billion through taxes.
Ruto warned of significant repercussions from dropping the finance bill, citing challenges in managing the country’s substantial debt burden and re-evaluating planned investments in education, healthcare, and agriculture.
Despite the bill’s withdrawal, public discontent persists, with further protests scheduled.
Demonstrators are demanding greater government accountability, with some calling for the president’s resignation.
Criticism also surrounds the perceived lack of empathy from authorities and allegations of excessive force by police in response to the protests.
Ruto acknowledged police actions, stating they had done their best but ensuring mechanisms were in place to address any reported excesses.
