President William Ruto attacked people who oppose him during a Saturday speech. He spoke before planned marches that will remember last year's huge protests against his government. The country has seen fighting between protesters, police, and armed gangs leading up to the anniversary. Violence has broken out as the date approaches for remembering the demonstrations.
Young people led massive protests during 2024 that reached their peak on June 25. Angry protesters wanted Ruto to step down and opposed his plans to raise taxes. They broke into the parliament building and security forces shot at them with real bullets. Families of dead protesters and activists promised to march on June 25 to honor those killed. They want police and politicians to let the peaceful rally happen.
Ruto gave his speech at the town of Meru and said his opponents only speak empty words and lies. He claimed they have no real plans for the country and only know how to chant for his removal. The president said critics cannot answer questions about healthcare, farming, or education policies. He dismissed threats from some leaders who say he will only serve one term as president. Ruto declared that nobody can scare him or make him back down.
The protests last year created the biggest crisis Ruto has faced as president. He had to cancel some of his planned tax increases and change his cabinet members. Most Kenyans stayed home after the protests ended but anger has grown again recently. A teacher died while being held by police and another person was killed during recent protests about police violence.
Young people led massive protests during 2024 that reached their peak on June 25. Angry protesters wanted Ruto to step down and opposed his plans to raise taxes. They broke into the parliament building and security forces shot at them with real bullets. Families of dead protesters and activists promised to march on June 25 to honor those killed. They want police and politicians to let the peaceful rally happen.
Ruto gave his speech at the town of Meru and said his opponents only speak empty words and lies. He claimed they have no real plans for the country and only know how to chant for his removal. The president said critics cannot answer questions about healthcare, farming, or education policies. He dismissed threats from some leaders who say he will only serve one term as president. Ruto declared that nobody can scare him or make him back down.
The protests last year created the biggest crisis Ruto has faced as president. He had to cancel some of his planned tax increases and change his cabinet members. Most Kenyans stayed home after the protests ended but anger has grown again recently. A teacher died while being held by police and another person was killed during recent protests about police violence.
