President William Ruto Launches ‘X’ Space Dialogue amid protests to bridge youth’s perspectives

July 8, 2024 19

On Friday the 5th of July 2024, President William Ruto engaged with Kenyans on social media in an X Space session where he addressed several pressing issues affecting the nation. The discussion covered topics such as the controversial Finance Bill 2024-2025, the recent protests against the bill, and the arrests that occurred during the demonstrations.

. The president’s participation was part of a broader conversation that included over 129,000 Kenyans who shared their concerns and grievances. The session underscored the growing discontent among Kenyans, particularly regarding the Finance Bill and the handling of protestors. This interaction highlights the government’s effort to engage with citizens through modern platforms like X Space.

President William Ruto addressed several critical issues in the X space with Kenyans. Here are some major highlights of what was discussed :

Aftermath of Protest Killings: President Ruto addressed the violent aftermath of recent anti-tax protests, which resulted in more than 20 deaths. He stated that he had no power to directly arraign the police officers involved, emphasizing that the judiciary handles such cases. He, however, promised a thorough investigation into the killings and assured that those responsible would face justice.

When asked whether he fulfilled his promise of talking to the families who lost their loved ones to the protests, the president said that plans were underway and he would meet with the bereaved, stating an example of Rex Masai’s family who lost Rex to the protests.

2.Corruption. The President talked about ongoing corruption cases, including a notable one against the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture related to fertilizer distribution. Ruto emphasized the government’s commitment to fighting corruption and mentioned plans to remove officials implicated in corrupt practices once sufficient evidence is available.

Finance Bill Issues: The controversial finance bill proposing significant tax hikes was a major point of discussion. Due to widespread protests and opposition, the president announced the bill would be withdrawn. He acknowledged the financial challenges posed by the withdrawal but stressed that the people’s voice had been heard. The bill initially aimed to address Kenya’s high debt but faced backlash for its impact on the cost of living and overtaking of Kenyans.
Housing Levy: The President discussed the housing levy included in the finance bill, which was meant to fund affordable housing projects. The levy faced significant opposition, and its future is now uncertain following the bill’s withdrawal.
Education Sector: The president touched on issues within the education sector, such as changes in university funding model. The president also announced that the earlier planned conversion of 46,000 junior secondary school intern teachers into permanent terms is on course. He said that despite the fall of the Finance Bill, 2024 which was meant to cater for the 2024/2025 budget shortfall, the government will look for ways of raising money to hire them.

He highlighted the importance of youth leadership and the government’s efforts to address challenges facing students and educational institutions.

Fulfilling Campaign Promises: He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises, such as the Hustler Fund, universal health coverage, and the housing program. Ruto also mentioned plans to change the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to a Social Health Insurance Fund to expand healthcare access
Budget and Economy. He also addressed the national budget and economic policies, highlighting the need for austerity measures and efficient resource management to support development without imposing excessive burdens on the public.Additionally, during the session, Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen who had joined the space, was confronted by participants regarding the arrest of an influencer known as Crazy Nairobian. Murkomen stated that he was unaware of the specifics of the case but expressed his willingness to assist in resolving the matter.
The President invited constructive criticism of government policies and promised that the administration would be transparent and accountable to the public. These discussions reflect Ruto’s efforts to respond to public concerns and steer the country through economic and social challenges.

Compiled by , ELIZABETH MAINA