Kenya’s president and protesters face reform challenge

Significance Those protests initially focused on the controversial new Finance Bill 2024, which President William Ruto subsequently withdrew, but have since morphed into calls for Ruto to resign. The most recent protests have been smaller but Ruto’s administration nevertheless faces an unprecedented crisis. Impacts Although Ruto has been the main focus so far, protesters’ anger is directed towards the entire dysfunctional and corrupt political system. Various issues highlighted by the protests may come before the courts, further embroiling the judiciary in politics. The protests have highlighted rising tensions between Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, which may fester. Even the threat of periodic protests may take a significant economic toll.