Tag: President Ruto news

President William Ruto outlined a plan to increase tax collection in Kenya, aiming to raise the average tax rate from 14% to between 20-22% by the end of his term. This strategy aims to lessen dependence on borrowing and achieve fiscal responsibility.

Ruto acknowledged the burden on Kenyans but believes long-term benefits outweigh the initial strain. He explained that relying on loans from institutions like the World Bank is essentially spending other countries’ savings.

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The President emphasized living within Kenya’s means and cutting unnecessary spending. He addressed the perception of high Kenyan taxes, stating that neighboring countries have a higher average tax-to-revenue ratio (22-25%).

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Ruto highlighted the need for a serious state to have a strong tax base. His comments come amidst proposals for a revamped Value Added Tax (VAT) system, impacting various goods and services.

Potential Tax Changes:

• Increased bread prices due to VAT implementation (previously exempt)
• Mandatory tax for all vehicle owners
• Removal of VAT exemptions for specific financial services (credit/debit card issuance, money transfers, cheque handling)

These proposals aim to fund the 2024-2025 budget.

President William Ruto declared a three-day national mourning period following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the life of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla and other senior military personnel.

General Ogolla, 61, perished in the accident that occurred near Chesegon, on the border of West Pokot and Elgeyo Marakwet counties.

A Nation in Mourning

President Ruto expressed his deep sorrow, stating, “This is a moment of great sadness… Our motherland has lost one of her most valiant generals…” He commended General Ogolla’s distinguished career and service, honoring his sacrifice by declaring a national mourning period beginning Friday, April 19, 2024.

Flags at Half-Mast

As a further mark of respect, the Kenyan flag, the Kenya Defence Forces flag, and the East African Community flag will be flown at half-mast throughout the country and at Kenyan embassies abroad.

Remembering the Fallen

President Ruto offered heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, acknowledging the pain shared by the nation, particularly the KDF fraternity. He praised General Ogolla as a “distinguished four-star general” who fell in the line of duty.

“I convey my deepest condolences to all families… May the Almighty Lord rest their souls in peace,” concluded the President, extending well wishes for a speedy recovery to the two soldiers injured in the accident.

President William Ruto has called for an immediate meeting of the National Security Council at State House Nairobi. This follows a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) helicopter crash that occurred this afternoon in Elgeyo-Marakwet County.

State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed confirmed the news through a statement. However, details regarding the cause of the crash and the status of those onboard remain unavailable at this time.

“President William Ruto has convened an urgent meeting of the National Security Council at State House Nairobi this evening following a Kenya Defence Forces’ helicopter crash this afternoon in Elgeyo-Marakwet County,” Mohamed stated.

Addressing the nation from the State House, the Head of State of State paid tribute to all the officers who perished in the chopper accident.

Ruto went on to name all the officers who died in the KDF chopper crash;

Brig. Swaleh Saidi

Col. Duncan Keitany

Lt. Col. David Sawe

Major George Benson Magondu (who was also the pilot)

Capt. Sorah Mohamed

Capt. Hillary Litali

Senior Sergeant John Kinywa Mureithi

Sgt. Cliffonce Omondi and

Sgt. Rose Nyawira.

“I’m deeply saddened to announce the passing on of Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla,” he said in his address at State House, Nairobi.

Two people who are suspected of heckling President William Ruto during his rally in Bomet over the weekend have been taken into custody.
Bomet County Commissioner Ahmed Omar confirmed the arrests, saying the two are being held in police custody and are scheduled to appear in court tomorrow.
The commissioner added that more suspects, including politicians, were being sought after for their roles in the heckling.

“We want to inform the public that we have done enough investigations and some of the investigations will continue. We have made two arrests so far and they are currently in police custody. We have more leads for others which we are following we believe that the two arrested will be taken to court tomorrow.

“We are following three groups of people, the planners the financers and those on the ground. We have evidence of some who were injured and we have information that some are trying to run away,” he said.

“We want to warn them that we have enough information on them and we are following them closely. We also warn those who have intentions of heckling in the future,” he added.

The latest comes after Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki ordered police and security agencies to go after organisers and financers of the heckling.

Issuing the orders on Monday, March 18, 2024, the CS asked police to arrest all perpetrators involved regardless of their political standing,

“You must expeditiously conclude investigations into the recent incidents and apprehend all persons who organise, finance, and orchestrate hooliganism in the county,” Kindiki stated.

At the World Leaders Summit in Dubai, President Ruto of Kenya shared stories demonstrating the transformative power of technology and innovation. He particularly focused on how young Kenyans are leveraging these advancements to thrive.

The Tale of Brian, the Village AI Star

President Ruto captivated the audience with the inspiring story of Brian, a young diploma student from a remote village. Despite never leaving his hometown or even having a passport, Brian secured employment with an AI company in Germany! This remarkable feat, made possible by internet access and electricity, showcases the democratizing potential of technology.

President Ruto emphasized Kenya’s commitment to digital inclusion and its impact on individuals like Brian. He described how the “digital revolution” enables Kenyans to connect with global opportunities from anywhere, unlocking previously unimaginable possibilities.

Further emphasizing the country’s tech prowess, President Ruto highlighted Apple’s employment of 23,000 Kenyans in Nairobi. This statistic paints a vivid picture of Kenya’s burgeoning tech scene and its potential to create high-value jobs.

A Commitment to Progress

President Ruto’s narrative underscores Kenya’s dedication to leveraging technology for public good. He emphasized using innovation to address challenges, improve lives, and empower individuals like Brian, symbolizing a brighter future for all Kenyans.

Following recent tensions between the executive and judiciary over anti-corruption efforts, President William Ruto has extended an olive branch for collaborative discussions. Speaking in Tinderet, Nandi County on January 16, 2024, Ruto expressed his readiness to engage with Chief Justice Martha Koome and the legislature to tackle corruption comprehensively.

Embracing a Collaborative Approach

Acknowledging the Chief Justice’s call for dialogue, Ruto stated,

“This is the year we are going to sort out corruption in Kenya. I am ready for talks between the executive, the judiciary, and the legislature. I am ready for the conversation on how we are going to deal with vested interests, incompetence, and especially corruption whether it is in the judiciary, legislature, or the executive.”

Targeting Systemic Challenges

He further emphasized the need to address ingrained obstacles to progress, highlighting those “who benefit from the status quo” and obstruct initiatives like universal healthcare and affordable housing.

Judicial Response and Previous Tensions

This conciliatory move comes after Chief Justice Koome expressed concern about President Ruto’s recent criticisms of the judiciary, including accusations of bribery impacting judicial decisions. She warned that disregarding court orders due to perceived corruption could lead to a constitutional crisis.

President William Ruto delivered a resounding message of hope and progress during the Jamhuri Day celebrations, declaring that Kenya has officially emerged from the economic danger zone. He attributed this achievement to the collective sacrifices of the Kenyan people and the decisive actions taken by his administration.

Ruto’s address acknowledged the nation’s significant progress over the last six decades, emphasizing the remarkable journey from humble beginnings to a thriving democracy. He paid tribute to the sacrifices of those who fought for the freedom enjoyed today, urging citizens to reflect on their contributions and contemplate how to further accelerate progress.

Highlighting Kenya’s successful transition from a single-party system to a multi-party democracy, marked by peaceful and orderly elections, the president hailed the end of violence and intolerance from past political landscapes. He acknowledged, however, that challenges remain, particularly in the areas of economic growth and youth unemployment.

Ruto emphasized the need for a united effort to tackle these issues, calling upon the current generation to embrace the responsibility of ensuring Kenya’s continued prosperity. He expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to overcome these challenges and urged citizens to contribute to the ongoing process of perfecting Kenya’s national sovereignty.

“In our democratic and political journey, we have made tremendous sacrifices and progress,” Ruto stated. “However, we have not made as much progress with our economy. Today, I am proud to declare that we are officially out of the danger zone. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Kenyan people, and I am confident that we will continue to build a bright future together.”

President Ruto’s message of hope and resilience resonated with the crowd at Uhuru Gardens, as Kenyans celebrated their nation’s achievements and looked forward to a brighter future. The challenges remain, but with continued commitment and collaboration, Kenya is poised to achieve even greater heights in the years to come.

President William Ruto has celebrated the first anniversary of the Hustler Fund, highlighting the impressive savings of Ksh2 billion accumulated by Kenyan borrowers. During the anniversary celebrations held at Railway Club Grounds on Thursday, November 30, the President commended the loan scheme for fostering a culture of saving among Kenyans.

“The 5% savings contribution of every Kenyan has now collectively reached Ksh2 billion,” President Ruto stated, acknowledging the significant savings component of the Hustler Fund.

Launched on November 30, 2022, the Hustler Fund aims to directly support and empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). President Ruto highlighted the platform’s active user base of 21.5 million Kenyans.

Approximately 19 million Kenyans have utilized the Hustler Fund to borrow a total of Ksh39.6 billion, with Ksh29 billion successfully repaid, according to the President’s remarks.

The Hustler Fund’s achievements underscore its effectiveness in promoting financial inclusion and empowering Kenyans to achieve their entrepreneurial aspirations.

President William Ruto has seemingly taken credit for the heavy rains that have been pounding the country for the last few weeks, despite evidence suggesting a link to the El Nino weather phenomenon.

According to President Ruto, the heavy rainfall, which has caused floods leading to loss of lives and property in some parts of the country, are God’s answer to his prayers.

Speaking at the Priesthood Fellowship Church in Kahawa West, Nairobi County, the President said he and his fellow Kenya Kwanza colleagues gathered at the Nyayo National Stadium in February 2023 and prayed for rains during a time when there was drought ravaging the country.

“We called for a prayer meeting at Nyayo Stadium because we wanted to pray to God for rains. Many people laughed at us, saying ‘look at them’ but this year, we have gotten miraculous rain. Is this true or not? This year, we got rains we never got in the last four years because praying to God is not a game,” said President Ruto.

His sentiments come in the wake of heavy rainfall in most parts of the country that have resulted in tens of deaths across the country due to flash floods. So far, 70 deaths have been reported across the country, with many more displaced by the floods amid widespread destruction of property.

The most recent deaths resulting from flooding claimed the lives of eight people who had been returning home after attending an anniversary ceremony that was hosted by First Lady Rachel Ruto at the Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi County.

According to reports, the seven were swept away at Mukaa area in Makueni County while attempting to cross the flooded Muuoni River.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the unfortunate incident that has happened to some of our @JoyfulWomen members from Makueni County. On my behalf and that of Joyful Women Organization, I sincerely express my utmost sympathies to the affected families. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends at this difficult time,” the First Lady later said.

The current heavy rains have been attributed to the El Nino weather phenomenon. As a result, the Kenya Meteorological Department has continuously issued advisories and alerts.

Flooding has especially been noted in Mombasa, Turkana, Makueni, Garissa and Taita Taveta among other counties.

President Ruto initially claimed that there would be no El Nino rains in Kenya but his deputy, Rigathi Gacagua, ended up publicly correcting him while he was out of the country.

On that occasion, the DP Gachagua held a press conference and invited a Director from the Meteorological Department to clarify that indeed El Nino rains are falling in Kenya, adding they did not know who had wrongly advised President Ruto into publicly making such a false claim.

In conclusion, while President Ruto may believe his prayers have brought rain to Kenya, the scientific evidence suggests that the El Nino weather phenomenon is the primary cause of the recent heavy downpours.

Kenyans online have expressed mixed reactions to President William Ruto’s latest overseas trip, with some expressing amusement and others raising concerns about the frequency and cost of his travels.

State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohammed announced that Ruto would be embarking on a two-day visit to Germany and France, aiming to strengthen Kenya’s economic and climate ties with the two countries and the European Union, and to advocate for a strong global consensus on climate action ahead of COP28.

However, many Kenyans on social media appeared unimpressed by the President’s latest foreign trip, which they perceived as excessive.

Mike Shiangala commented, “It was a pleasure hosting this gentleman in Kenya. Travel safely as we look forward to hosting you again in the coming future.”

Douglas Orang’i added, “He has overstayed. Bon voyage.”

Henry Kabogo echoed the sentiment, “It is not a must you tell us.”

Opiyo Denis sarcastically suggested, “Why can’t he propose to have a permanent residence in Europe? He can schedule to be attending church service in Kenya on Sundays and travel back to Europe in the evening to tackle climate change now that climate change to him is more urgent than the pain and suffering of Kenyans.”

Nicholas Robert opined, “He should do away with ambassadors because since he has taken their jobs they’ve been receiving salaries that they’ve not worked for. He should in fact add the roles of ambassadors and minister for foreign affairs into his portfolio.”

Nick Maina questioned the effectiveness of these trips, stating, “In this day and age, you people can’t realize it’s cheap to make the calls? Can you quantify with evidence that can independently verify the benefits accrued to Kenya by the trips?”

Since assuming office in September 2022, President Ruto has made 38 foreign trips, covering 45 cities across 38 nations over 83 days.

These foreign travels have cost the Kenyan taxpayer over Sh56 million in travel expenses for the first half of the financial year ending in June 2024.

In addition, there was a request from the National Assembly’s Defence Committee in May for an additional allocation of Sh1.3 billion for the President’s global travels, supplementing the Sh700 million already allocated by the Treasury.

In response to the concerns raised about his numerous foreign trips, President Ruto acknowledged public concern but defended his actions, stating that these trips are an integral part of his presidential duties.

“Concerning my foreign travels, that is my work as President. I am the chief agent of Kenya, I am the ambassador of Kenya planning on how the country moves forward,” he said.

“As the chief agent and chief ambassador of our country, these foreign trips, that people are making noise about are crucial because we can look for opportunities for Kenyans. We are a great nation and going places. We shall do the right thing and Kenya shall prosper,” the Head of State explained.

President William Ruto has publicly challenged opposition leader Raila Odinga to provide evidence supporting his claims that the government-to-government oil deal is a scam.

In a speech delivered during a church service in Bomet on November 19, 2023, Ruto vehemently defended the transparency of his administration and the legitimacy of the oil deal established between his government and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Odinga had recently raised concerns over the deal’s transparency, urging the government to make public the contracts signed between the involved parties. In response, Ruto maintained the deal’s legitimacy and benefits, pointing to the interest of neighboring countries like Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda in pursuing similar agreements.

“I challenge the opposition to provide proof that the oil deal is a scam instead of demanding proof that it is not,” Ruto declared. He urged Raila to cease spreading misinformation, citing confirmation from oil marketers that the deal is in the best interest of Kenya and its citizens.

Ruto asserted that the contracts are publicly accessible and invited opposition legislators to review the documents in Parliament, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to transparency. “There is no secret contract anywhere,” Ruto stated, welcoming scrutiny from both government and opposition MPs.

Raila had previously cast doubt on the Government-to-Government (G2G) oil deal, signed in early 2023, questioning its effectiveness as the cost of oil had not decreased as intended. “The deal was a scam for which we now demand full disclosure and full accountability. It is corrupt and rotten to the core,” Raila asserted.

Ruto’s administration implemented the government-to-government oil supply contracts in March 2023 in response to the shilling’s significant depreciation against the dollar.

Despite the government’s rationale, Raila argued that landlocked countries relying on Kenya for oil are abandoning Kenya’s pipeline due to its rising costs. He also criticized the deal’s alleged secrecy, claiming that only two documents have been made public to date.

The escalating exchange between Ruto and Raila has intensified the already contentious narrative surrounding the controversial oil agreement.

President William Ruto has defended his numerous trips abroad, which have attracted criticism from some Kenyans. In a speech on Sunday, October 29, Ruto said that traveling abroad was part of his job as the head of state and that his trips were boosting Kenya’s bilateral ties and creating job opportunities for Kenyans.

Ruto said that he was currently in talks with Saudi Arabia to create 350,000 jobs for Kenyans, and that he would sign a bilateral agreement with the kingdom on his next visit there in three weeks.

“I have been traveling abroad because it is part of my job as the president,” Ruto said. “I am building relationships with other countries, which will benefit Kenya in the long run. For example, I am currently talking to Saudi Arabia about creating 350,000 jobs for Kenyans. This will be a huge boost for our economy.”

Ruto’s response comes after many Kenyans expressed their displeasure with his frequent travels, arguing that they are too expensive and that the president should be focusing on domestic issues. However, Ruto said that his trips are essential for Kenya’s economic development.

“I know that some people are not happy with my travels,” Ruto said. “But I want to assure them that I am doing this for the good of the country. I am building relationships with other countries that will help us to create jobs and grow our economy.“

It remains to be seen whether Ruto’s response will satisfy his critics. However, his defense of his travels is a reminder of the importance of bilateral relations for Kenya’s economic development.

President William Ruto has warned individuals who are planning to grab public land in Dagoretti, Nairobi. Speaking to a roadside crowd in Dagoretti constituency on Sunday, October 22, Ruto said that he will take decisive action against land grabbers and corrupt individuals.

“I have been informed by MP John Kiarie that there are people who want to steal public land here in Dagoretti,” Ruto said. “I want to tell those land grabbers, troublemakers, and corrupt individuals that they have three options: they can either return the land, they can face the full force of the law, or they can be dealt with by me personally.”

Ruto also vowed to use his presidential sword to “slay” the land grabbers and cartels. “I was given a sword on the day of my inauguration,” he said. “That sword is not for cutting vegetables. It is for cutting down these troublemakers. I will cut them down, and I will cut them down for good.”

The President’s warning comes amid growing concerns about land grabbing in Kenya. In recent years, there have been a number of high-profile cases of public land being illegally acquired by individuals and corporations. Ruto’s government has pledged to crack down on land grabbing, and his warning to land grabbers in Dagoretti is a sign that he is serious about his commitment.

Analysis

Ruto’s warning to land grabbers in Dagoretti is a significant development. It is a clear signal that the government is serious about cracking down on land grabbing, and it could lead to a crackdown on land grabbers in other parts of the country as well.

Ruto’s use of his presidential sword to symbolize his commitment to fighting land grabbing is also significant. It is a reminder that the president has the power to use the full force of the law to prosecute land grabbers.

It remains to be seen whether Ruto’s warning will have the desired effect. However, it is a positive step, and it suggests that the government is finally taking land grabbing seriously.

President William Ruto has broken his silence on the botched Uasin Gishu Finland and Canada Overseas Education Program, which left many students stranded after their parents paid the required fees but the program failed to deliver.

Ruto said that anyone found culpable in the misappropriation of funds would face the law. He also promised to help students who were heavily impacted by the scandal.

“Investigations are underway and anyone stole the money, they must repay or face the law,” Ruto said. “People must be refunded their money, whether they sold cows or land.”

Ruto also said that the students who were affected by the scandal would be granted scholarships to study in Kenya.

“I cannot accept such things,” Ruto said. “They are embarrassing us. I don’t want to say much but the police are sorting it out.”

Senator Jackson Mandago, who was the governor of Uasin Gishu when the program was launched, was arrested on Wednesday in connection with the scandal. He has admitted that the program was not a scholarship, although it was referred to as such by the county.

The investigation into the scandal is ongoing.

President William Ruto has nominated candidates for appointment to the Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA) and the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).

The nominations were made on the recommendation of the Public Service Commission (PSC).

For the CRA, President Ruto has nominated CPA Mary Wanyonyi as the Chairperson. Wanyonyi is a qualified accountant with over 20 years of experience in the public and private sectors. She is currently the Deputy Director-General of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).

For the SRC, President Ruto has nominated Dr. Ocharo Odhiambo as the Chairperson. Odhiambo is a qualified economist with over 20 years of experience in the public and private sectors. He is currently the Director of Economic Research at the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA).

The nominations are now subject to parliamentary approval.

Background

The CRA is a constitutional body that is responsible for allocating revenue raised by the national government to the 47 counties. The SRC is a constitutional body that is responsible for setting and reviewing the salaries and allowances of all public officers.

The Nominations

The nominations of CPA Mary Wanyonyi and Dr. Ocharo Odhiambo are significant for a number of reasons.

First, they are the first time that the President has nominated candidates for appointment to these two important constitutional bodies.

Second, both Wanyonyi and Odhiambo are qualified and experienced professionals with a proven track record of success in the public and private sectors.

Third, the nominations are seen as a sign of President Ruto’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that these two important constitutional bodies are independent and impartial.

The Parliamentary Approval Process

The nominations of CPA Mary Wanyonyi and Dr. Ocharo Odhiambo will now be subject to parliamentary approval.

The National Assembly and the Senate will each have 21 days to consider the nominations. If a majority of members of either house vote against a nomination, the President will have to withdraw the nomination and nominate someone else.

If both houses approve the nominations, the President will then appoint CPA Mary Wanyonyi and Dr. Ocharo Odhiambo to the CRA and the SRC, respectively.