Step Forward, Don’t Remain Anonymous, Formless Or Faceless – Ruto Tells Protest Leaders
President William Ruto has urged recent protest leaders to present alternative solutions for guiding the country rather than resorting to demonstrations.
Addressing a church gathering in Bomet County, he cautioned that his administration would steadfastly prevent the country from descending into chaos.
Asserting that the protests are being orchestrated by certain individuals, President Ruto called on these backers to come forward and outline a clear direction for the nation.
The President also criticized the current wave of anti-government protests, labeling them as driven by “anonymous, faceless, formless, sponsored” entities seeking to use violence to dominate the nation.
“We must not allow our democracy to be replaced by the tyranny and dictatorship of nameless, faceless individuals who use violence, property destruction, and loss of life as a means of control,” he declared.
“It is crucial to protect our nation’s peace, stability, and democracy from being undermined by these faceless, formless, and sponsored groups who aim to create chaos and disorder,” he emphasized.
He assured the public that his government would safeguard lives and property from those inciting violence.
“Our government is committed to being resolute and determined to defend the country from the chaos of violence and anarchy. We will protect life and property and challenge those inciting and funding this violence to present their plans for Kenya’s progress,” he added.
“They must stop hiding behind anonymity and reveal their concrete plans beyond chaos and violence. I urge these shadowy figures to come forward and share their alternatives for advancing our country. We cannot let faceless anarchists destroy our democracy with violence.”
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The president’s comments follow a series of anti-government protests that have significantly disrupted the country. These unprecedented demonstrations have led the government to implement various austerity measures in response to the demands of the youth.
The month-long protests are expected to continue on Tuesday, July 23, which has been dubbed The Final Revolution Fixing the Nation.
Starting on June 18, 2024, the young generation called for the removal of the Finance Bill 2024, increased government transparency and accountability, and the adoption of austerity measures in line with the current economic situation.
In contrast, the president has suggested that the Ford Foundation may be among those funding the protests.
“I want to ask the Ford Foundation to explain what benefit they gain from funding these disruptions,” he said in Nakuru on Monday, July 15.
Following this, Foreign Affairs PS Korir SingOei sent a letter to the Ford Foundation requesting a list of all grant recipients from April 2023 to May 2024.
In response, the Ford Foundation denied the allegations, asserting that they maintain a non-partisan stance in grant distribution, though they support the right of Kenyans to peaceful protest.
“We denounce any actions or rhetoric that promote violence or hatred against individuals, institutions, or communities,” the foundation stated.
Step Forward, Don’t Remain Anonymous, Formless Or Faceless – Ruto Tells Protest Leaders