By 
Kenya’s President, William Ruto, has taken the unprecedented step of dismissing all his ministers and the attorney-general “with immediate effect” in response to recent deadly protests against an unpopular tax bill.
The protests prompted Ruto to withdraw the controversial tax hikes.
Ruto explained in a statement issued from Nairobi, Kenya on Thursday that his decision came after careful reflection and listening to the concerns of Kenyans, leading to a comprehensive assessment of his cabinet.
He said he plans to establish a more inclusive government through wide-ranging consultations.
The dissolution of the cabinet excludes the deputy president, who cannot be removed legally and the prime cabinet secretary, who also served as the foreign affairs minister.
Ruto did not specify a timeline for appointing a new government but indicated ongoing consultations across various sectors and political groups.
Read more: Tough times ahead, as Kenya’s Ruto proposes austerity measures after 39 killed in protests
This move is highly unusual, occurring less than two years after Ruto assumed office.
The last time Kenya witnessed such a significant cabinet overhaul was in 2005 under then President Mwai Kibaki, following a referendum defeat over a proposed new constitution.
Pressure had been mounting on Ruto amid ongoing anti-government protests demanding greater accountability.
While he withdrew the tax increases, demonstrators continued to call for broader reforms and some even demanded Ruto’s resignation.
Recently, Ruto introduced austerity measures across government agencies and halted proposed salary increases for cabinet members and parliamentarians in response to public outcry.
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