Kenya protests were infiltrated by criminal gangs, Ruto in CNN interview
National
By
Mate Tongola
| Sep 27, 2024
President William Ruto has defended his decision to deploy the military during the June 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests, arguing that the situation could have="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/health/national/article/2001498144/ruto-at-pains-to-explain-police-brutality-during-demonstrations#google_vignette"> escalated "For your information, Kenya is a robustly democratic country, and protests are part of our democracy. People have the freedom to associate and make their voices heard," the Head of State said. He added that police had to intervene to restore law and order after criminal elements infiltrated the peaceful protests, leading to violence in several parts of the country.
"In addition to the protests, there were ="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/national/article/2001499341/ruto-talks-tough-vows-to-deal-with-sponsors-of-protests">criminal gangs< in Nairobi that set fire to the Parliament building, the Chief Justice's office, and other properties. Our security agencies had to respond to manage the situation," Ruto explained.
The president also noted that Kenya has independent oversight bodies, such as the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), to investigate any instances of police misconduct. Ruto was responding to Christiane Amanpour's question about whether he regretted deploying security forces against demonstrators protesting high taxes.
On Kenya’s growing debt and economic stability, Ruto said his administration is working with international partners to secure sustainable funding and address the debt crisis.
"As I speak, inflation has decreased from 9 percent to 4.3 percent, and our exchange rate is now stable. We are making progress without overburdening Kenyans," he said.FKF's electoral board independence questioned
Football stakeholders want the Board to move out of Kandanda House.
Kempes defends decision to file case at arbitration court
Owino said things must be streamlined to save Kenyan football from corrupt individuals.
Rugby returns to Machakos as Shujaa aims for Safari 7s three-peat
The tournament will be held on October 11-13.
Kiambu's Michael Karanga crowned 2024 Malindi Open champion
Karanga registered his back-to-back win after last weekend’s victory in the Railway’s Invitational.
Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet awarded Golden Plates by American institution
Kipyegon and Chebet have been awarded following their outstanding performances and consistency in recent track seasons.