In Kenya, clashes have erupted following President William Ruto's substantial donation to a church, leading to police intervention. The donation has drawn criticism amid rising living costs and tax increases, stoking public anger against the government's fiscal decisions.
Church Donation Sparks Unrest in Kenya
Church Donation Sparks Unrest in Kenya
Protests erupt after President Ruto's donation to a Nairobi church ignites tensions amidst economic struggles.
Police in Nairobi were forced to deploy tear gas to disperse demonstrators protesting President William Ruto's recent donation of 20 million shillings (approximately $155,000) to the Jesus Winner Ministry located in the Roysambu area. This financial gift triggered significant backlash among young Kenyans grappling with the soaring cost of living.
Ruto defended his contribution, stating it was part of his broader agenda to combat moral decay in the country. The president's plans also include a similar donation to another church in Eldoret, defying prior requests from both Catholic and Anglican leaders who rejected donations last year, citing concerns over political manipulation of the church.
The protests escalated as crowds attempted to breach the church premises, resulting in barricaded roads littered with debris. Several demonstrators were arrested during these confrontations, although the church service proceeded under heavy security measures for attendees.
Bishop Edward Mwai alleged that outside forces had incited the chaos by mobilizing disruptors to agitate the situation. Ruto, an evangelical Christian, emphasized the necessity of rekindling the nation's spiritual connection to counteract detractors of church involvement in societal issues.
The president's approval of the donation comes amid a wave of public discontent spurred by recent tax hikes introduced since his ascension to office amidst heavy debts inherited from previous administrations. Many citizens demand accountability from the government, advocating for stricter measures against public waste before accepting increased taxes.
Previously, large-scale protests led Ruto to retract his proposed Finance Bill, which aimed to impose further tax increases, indicating a growing resistance to his administration's financial policies.
