United States (US) Secretary of State Anthony Blinken held a discussion with President William Ruto over a phone call concerning the progress of his efforts to engage in dialogue with the anti-finance bill protesters.
In their conversation, Blinken hailed Ruto for his efforts to reduce tension in the country in the wake of the on-going anti-finance bill protests.
The United States (US) Secretary of State further emphasized on the need for law enforcement officers to avoid violence during legal protests.
“There is need for security forces to exercise restraint and avoid violence, urging prompt investigations into human rights abuse allegations,” he emphasized.
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Additionally, he termed President William Ruto as a committed leader who upholds Kenyans’ constitutional rights, among them being peaceful assembly and due process for those detained during protests.
Also Read: Ruto Withdraws Finance Bill 2024, Gives Way Forward
According to a statement by his spokesperson Matthew Miller, Blinken reiterated the partnership of the United States with Kenya’s government and people to address economic challenges.
Ruto Withdraws 2024 Finance Bill
This statement comes after President William Ruto announced the withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024.
During a press briefing on 26th June,2024, the president proposed budget cuts for the Office of the President and the renovations that had earlier been budgeted for.
In his statement, Ruto said that he will be proposing new measures to ensure that he works with the youth to make decisions moving forward.
Additionally, Ruto promised to involve other stakeholders including civil societies and the clergy on decision making within the next 14 days.
Ruto’s announcement came a day after mass anti-finance bill protests were experienced in most parts of the country.
The Gen Z-led mass protests were aimed at rejecting the 2024 finance bill, which citizens criticized for introducing tax policies deemed to be punitive due to the proposed high taxes.
Also Read: LSK Calls Out Ruto, Kindiki, & IG Koome for Defying Court Orders
Earlier on Wednesday, the Law society of Kenya (LSK) threatened to sue Chief of Defense forces General Charles Kahariri for lives lost in the protests due to violence from the police.
Additionally, the society challenged the move by Cabinet Secretary for Defense Aden duale to have Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) deployed in various parts of the country ahead of 27th, June ,2024 protests.
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