Ruto Downplays Push for Him to Step Down
Anti-government protestors are within their democratic space, President William Ruto has said.
He said the discourse expressed by the protesters are the fruits of democracy.
“The electorate are free to engage in the discourse and are within their democratic rights,” he pointed out.
Ruto said the protesters are entitled to their own opinion with calls for his resignation over already withdrawn controversial Finance Bill 2024.
He spoke during a roundtable interview held at State House in Nairobi.
The Head of State said the country is governed by the rules within a constitutional democracy.
Ruto told the session everybody enjoys the freedom of speech and thoughts and they are free to engage in the discourse.
He said according to government records only 19 people have died during the anti-government demonstrations.
“It is not 24 people that have lost their lives during the protests but it is very unfortunate and regrettable,” he pointed out.
Time to Retire
He added that any state corporation employee who has attained the mandatory retirement age of 60 years must proceed to retirement and get retirement benefits.
President William Ruto has directed that any retired state employee should not be granted any extension to their tenure of service.
He defended his directive that those who have attained the mandatory retirement age of 60 years must proceed to retirement and get their benefits saying this is in response to overwhelming public feedbacks.
“This is to fulfill my commitment to continuously and effectively listen to the people of Kenya,” he added.
President Ruto disclosed that he underscores his intention to always take public contribution in good faith.
He made the remarks when he issued a statement at State House in Nairobi.
The Head of State said he has stopped the government from purchasing new vehicles until the next financial year.
Ruto said this is with the exception of security agencies which will be allowed to purchase new vehicle units.
He said a new policy on transport for public officers will be developed within the period.
“All non-essential travel by state and public officers have been suspended,” he directed.
The Head of State has banned state or public officers from participating in funds drives or the famous harambees functions.
Ruto directed Attorney General Justin Muturi to prepare and submit legislation to his directive with immediate effect.
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