In Summary:
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua positions himself as a defender of the people during government crisis, while President William Ruto’s austerity measures spark concerns and protests.
Headlines from Kenyan newspapers on Tuesday, July 9,2024 including The Standard, Daily Nation, People Daily, The Star, and Taifa Leo. IMAGE |Courtesy
On Tuesday, July 9, Kenyan national newspapers provided extensive coverage of President William Ruto’s austerity measures, which have been met with significant opposition following protests against the Finance Bill 2024.
Here’s a breakdown of how different newspapers reported on the issue:
The Star:
In the midst of the government’s crisis, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has emerged as the people’s advocate, presenting himself as their protector.
Despite possible repercussions, Gachagua has openly criticized actions such as alleged abductions by security officers and the excessive use of police force.
He has also called for compensation for those injured during protests and support for families who lost loved ones.
Analysts believe Gachagua is adopting Ruto’s pre-2022 election strategy to appeal to the public through populist measures.
His strong support for the Mt Kenya region has elicited both approval and criticism, with some accusing him of tribalism.
Taifa Leo:
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been shunned by many politicians, especially from Mount Kenya, despite his efforts to promote unity in the region.
His campaign against illegal alcohol production and the resource allocation system known as “one man, one vote, one shilling,” has faced resistance.
Key politicians distancing themselves from Gachagua include National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki.
Even MPs from Gachagua’s home county of Nyeri have started to distance themselves from him, exposing internal disagreements.
The Standard:
Generation Z, Kenya’s youngest adults, have become a significant force against the Finance Bill 2024 and broader governance issues.
Demonstrating remarkable organizational skills and digital fluency, they turned discontent on platforms like TikTok into a nationwide movement.
This group has established a communal fund to support their activities, emphasizing their commitment to mutual support and collective responsibility.
Their activism represents a new paradigm in grassroots movements, characterized by digital connectivity and solidarity.
People Daily:
Key figures in President Ruto’s Cabinet and advisers to county governors are expected to lose their jobs as part of the government’s austerity measures.
Ruto announced a 50% reduction in the number of government advisers to cut expenditure, causing concern among advisers and political allies about job losses.
“The number of advisers in government shall be reduced by 50% within the public service with immediate effect,” he stated.
David Ndii, chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, leads the team facing potential cuts.
Daily Nation:
In another issue, Petronilla Kitony, a 53-year-old woman, was convicted of stealing Sh467,000 from the bank account of a 70-year-old man with dementia.
Kitony colluded with a relative of the victim, who knew the elderly man received money from his children in the United States.
The relative alerted the banks to stop further transactions after noticing the man’s mental condition, highlighting ongoing concerns about financial exploitation of vulnerable individuals.