In a stark reversal following days of violence that left at least 30 dead, Kenyan President William Ruto asserted during a televised interview on Sunday that he bore no responsibility for the bloodshed that engulfed Nairobi in the wake of contentious tax increases. The protests, initially peaceful, descended into chaos last Tuesday after lawmakers pushed through unpopular fiscal policies under pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
President Ruto, addressing the nation from State House in Nairobi, faced mounting criticism as he sought to defuse public outrage. “I have no blood on my hands,” he declared, emphasizing his commitment to a full investigation into the deaths. “It is very unfortunate,” he added, “as a democracy, that should not be part of our conversation.”
The turmoil erupted when police clashed with demonstrators who stormed the parliament complex, igniting a fire and prompting officers to open fire. Ruto acknowledged 19 fatalities, marking the first official tally provided by authorities, promising accountability for any police misconduct. “Any killer cop who went beyond what is provided for in the law will have action taken against them,” he assured the public.
Despite scrapping the controversial finance bill, which aimed to significantly raise taxes, Ruto admitted shortcomings in governmental communication. “We should have communicated better,” he conceded, lamenting the fiscal setbacks resulting from the bill’s withdrawal. He underscored the bill’s potential benefits, asserting, “If I am given a chance to explain… every Kenyan would agree with me.”
The unrest, described as unprecedented since Kenya gained independence from Britain in 1963, prompted hundreds to gather peacefully in Nairobi’s Uhuru Park on Saturday, commemorating the lives lost in the clashes. Candle-lit vigils and chants for justice reverberated through the park, as demonstrators waved Kenyan flags in solemn solidarity.
Looking forward, President Ruto vowed to apprehend those responsible for the violence. “Criminals infiltrated and caused mayhem,” he asserted, warning that individuals seen attacking government institutions were captured on CCTV and would face consequences. “Many of them are on the run but we will catch them,” he affirmed.
The aftermath of these events has left Kenya grappling with profound societal and political repercussions, as the nation mourns the lives lost and seeks accountability amid a climate of heightened tension and uncertainty.
