Kenyan President William Ruto announced on Thursday the dismissal of almost his entire cabinet and consultations to form a “broad-based government” following widespread anti-government protests. He said the move affects all ministers including the attorney-general but excluded prime cabinet secretary and foreign minister Musalia Mudavadi and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Ruto said he decided on the dismissals “upon reflection, listening keenly to what the people of Kenya have said and after a holistic appraisal of the performance of my cabinet and its achievements and challenges”.
The action comes after peaceful protests led by young Gen-Z Kenyans that have evolved into a broader campaign against Ruto and his government, with some protests turning violent. Ruto also mentioned plans to engage in extensive consultations across various sectors and political groups to establish a broad-based government. This government aims to implement “radical programs” to address the country’s significant debt, enhance job prospects, reduce government inefficiencies, and combat corruption effectively.
