Kenya's President Ruto Vows New Inclusive Cabinet

Nairobi, Kenya- Kenya's President William Ruto has pledged to form a "broad-based government" following weeks of intense and deadly anti-government protests triggered by an unpopular tax bill.

Despite his promise of a new direction, six of the 11 proposed ministers were part of the cabinet he dismissed last week.

Ruto, in his Friday address, framed the ongoing crisis as a smaller issue compared to the potential opportunities ahead for Kenya.

The protests, which resulted in over 40 deaths, began in response to proposed tax increases. Although the government retracted these proposals, the predominantly young protesters expanded their demands, now calling for Ruto's resignation.

Following the dismissal of his cabinet, Kenya's police chief also resigned amidst accusations from human rights groups that police had fatally shot protesters and arbitrarily arrested hundreds. Ruto stated that the 11 proposed ministers are a "first batch" requiring approval by the National Assembly.

Key nominees include Kithure Kindiki for the interior ministry, despite calls for his resignation over protest management, Debra Mlongo Barasa for health, Julius Migos Ogamba for education, and Aden Barre Duale for defense.

Ruto reiterated his commitment to forming a government that would harness Kenya's potential for economic transformation and inclusive growth. However, many Kenyans had expected a fresh cabinet composed of younger, diverse professionals rather than familiar political figures.

Ruto concluded by promising to announce more names "in due course."