Kenya Protests: Ruto’s Neglect & US Relations Exposed

Kenya Protests: Ruto’s Actions and US Ties

President William Ruto of Kenya wants to be seen as a global leader. He speaks about fixing climate change. He meets with tech leaders in Silicon Valley. He also works with the White House on peace efforts. However, Kenya faces big problems at home. These include debt, corruption, and security issues. These problems have caused recent protests in Kenya. They have also hurt Ruto’s popularity in Kenya. Some say that Ruto’s government is struggling. They also say that Western countries might lose influence in Kenya. This is because Russia and China are becoming more involved in Africa.

Public Upset Due to Kenya’s Problems

Ruto is known for working hard. But, people still question his past. The International Criminal Court dropped a case against him. But, he is still accused of involvement in violence after the 2007-8 elections. This is a sensitive topic. Also, his many trips abroad have been criticized. In his first 20 months, Ruto took 62 trips to 38 countries. Because of this, people say he doesn’t understand the problems of Kenyans. A BBC article on April 29, 2024, says that rising living costs and taxes are making people angry. (https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-68869119)

People feel that Ruto is not connected to what is happening in Kenya. When he is abroad, he talks about investment and Kenya’s role in the world. But, Kenyans face rising costs and question the government’s focus. His expensive trips are a point of criticism. This is especially true since important services in Kenya lack funding. Al Jazeera reported on May 10, 2024, that Ruto defended his use of a private jet. This happened despite public anger over government spending. (https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/5/10/kenyas-ruto-defends-use-of-private-jet-amid-public-uproar)

US and Kenya: A Complicated Relationship

Kenya and the United States are becoming closer under Ruto. However, some worry that the US might not see the problems in Kenya. The stronger relationship has helped attract foreign investors. Many are from US tech companies. But, some say that the US is now softer on Kenya regarding governance and human rights.

Boniface Mwangi is a Kenyan activist. He said he was worried about the US response to recent events. He stated that words of concern and a phone call from the US Secretary of State were not enough. Mwangi thinks the US needs to be tougher on Kenya. A US State Department person said that the embassy in Nairobi has asked for restraint and respect for rights.

Tax Hikes Cause Protests

Recent protests in Kenya are due to tax increases and rising living costs. These protests show the gap between Ruto’s actions abroad and the struggles of Kenyans. Africanews.com reports that the tax hikes have turned deadly. (https://www.africanews.com/2024/06/26/kenya-protests-against-rutos-tax-hikes-turn-deadly/) Ruto talks about climate action and seeks investment. However, Kenyans struggle with money problems and question the government’s priorities. The frequent trips abroad have caused anger. This is especially true since services at home are not funded well.

Some say that the government focuses too much on foreign money. They say this is happening instead of fixing the needs of Kenyans. This perceived neglect has made people feel betrayed. The Kenya protests show this anger. They highlight the need for the government to fix the economic problems of its people.

Historical factors make the situation complex. The US has often helped promote democracy in Africa. Its work with Kenya should show these values. Economic ties should not hide the importance of good governance and rights. A balanced approach is needed. This will support Kenya’s progress while holding the government responsible.

The closer ties between Kenya and the US offer possible economic benefits. But, they also create a complex issue for the US. The US wants to keep a strong ally in a key region. However, it must also hold Kenya responsible for human rights and good governance. A careful approach is needed. It should combine support with helpful criticism.

Conclusion

The Kenya protests show a tension between Ruto’s goals and the needs of Kenyans. International work and investment are important. But, the government must fix the economic struggles of Kenyans. The US is a key ally. It faces a balancing act in supporting Kenya. It must also uphold its commitment to rights and good governance.