Kenyan President William Ruto on Wednesday appointed four members from the main opposition party, including John Mbadi as finance minister, to a “broad-based” cabinet promised in response to nationwide protests. However, activists have criticized the move as a corrupt deal.
Ruto described the new cabinet as a “visionary partnership for the radical transformation of Kenya” and thanked those who contributed to its formation. Young protesters, who led six weeks of demonstrations forcing Ruto to retract $2.7 billion in tax hikes, argue that the unity government merely co-opts the opposition without addressing real issues.
The protests, the most severe crisis of Ruto’s presidency, have left over 50 dead. Despite suspending the tax hikes, demonstrations continue with calls for Ruto’s resignation and significant anti-corruption reforms. Activist Boniface Mwangi criticized Ruto, referring to him as “Zakayo” (a biblical term for a greedy tax collector), and accused Raila Odinga, the opposition leader, of betraying the people.
Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) denied negotiating any coalition or political arrangement with the government. The party’s allies have strongly opposed the unity government.
In addition to the opposition appointees, Ruto reinstated five members from his previous cabinet and announced 11 new nominations, with some holdovers from the former cabinet. He promised upcoming amendments to anti-corruption laws and urged the release of innocent protesters.
The largely online-organized protests began peacefully but escalated with police violence, including tear gas and live rounds. A new march is planned for Thursday to present a petition and honor those killed.
Ruto initially praised the protesters but has recently intensified his criticism, vowing to end the demonstrations, which he claims are causing “mayhem and anarchy.” Activists have accused politicians of using hired thugs to discredit the movement.