Kenya’s William Ruto names opponents to new cabinet

AFRICAN BUSINESS AND ECONOMYJuly 26, 2024 at 2:47 PM UTC

TLDR

Kenyan President William Ruto nominates opposition party members to a "broad-based" cabinet following protests.
John Mbadi selected to lead the finance ministry, a key ally of opposition leader Raila Odinga defeated by Ruto in the 2022 election.
Ruto hails the new government as a transformative partnership for Kenya, thanking those involved for their patriotism.

Kenyan President William Ruto nominated four members of the main opposition party to a "broad-based" cabinet he promised in response to nationwide protests, but activists have criticized the new government as a corrupt bargain.

Among the opposition members nominated is John Mbadi, the pick to lead the finance ministry, who is an ally of opposition leader Raila Odinga, whom Ruto defeated in the 2022 election.

In a speech from his official residence, Ruto described the new government as “a visionary partnership for the radical transformation of Kenya” and expressed gratitude to those who consulted on its formation for the “historic gesture of their patriotism.”

Key Takeaways

Young protesters behind six weeks of demonstrations that forced President Ruto to withdraw $2.7 billion in tax hikes criticized the unity government, claiming it would perpetuate a tradition of leaders co-opting the opposition at the expense of the population. The protests, which have resulted in over 50 deaths, represent the most significant crisis of Ruto’s two-year tenure. Despite Ruto shelving the tax increases, demonstrations have continued, with many activists now demanding his resignation and calling for extensive reforms to address corruption. Protesters argue that the new cabinet, which includes opposition members, fails to address the underlying issues and serves to maintain the status quo.

Kenya

Economy

Protests

Cabinet

Government

Politics