Kenyans residing in Washington DC, USA, have issued a set of demands to President William Ruto, outlining major concerns and calling for prompt action on multiple fronts.
Among their requests is the immediate release of individuals detained during the nationwide protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2024, which sparked demonstrations in 35 out of Kenya's 47 counties.
Led by spokesperson Fan Murianki, the Kenyan diaspora in the US has publicly opposed President Ruto's initiative to engage the public through the newly announced National Multi-Sectoral Forum. Instead, they urged the President to directly communicate with the Gen Z population in Kenya. They argue that this demographic, pivotal in the protests, deserves direct communication from the Head of State.
Fan MuriankIn a strongly worded letter to the Kenyan government, the diaspora criticized President Ruto for labeling Gen Z protesters as criminals. They contend that this characterization was an effort to justify the excessive use of police force, which tragically led to numerous deaths.
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The letter stated, “Despite withdrawing the Finance Bill on June 26, 2024, President Ruto has avoided accountability for his shoot-to-kill orders. His deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, distanced himself from the Black Tuesday killings, blaming security agents for the extrajudicial killings.”
Furthermore, the group demanded the release of the remains of those killed in the Githurai shootout on the night of June 25, alleging that the state had taken possession of them. They also called for the immediate recall of the US ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, accusing her of acting as the “Ruto regime’s official fixer” and working to legitimize his administration.
The diaspora raised concern about the involvement of several US Congressmen who visited the Kenyan Parliament on June 19, including Representatives Vern Buchanan, Gwen Moore, Dan Kildee, Neal Dunn, Jodey Arrington, and Drew Ferguson.
They asked these lawmakers to stop publicly endorsing the Ruto administration, as they feel it gives the divisive Kenya Kwanza government too much legitimacy.
The Kenyan diaspora addressed the larger economic backdrop and chastised the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for its involvement in the Finance Bill 2024. The measure was prepared in accordance with the IMF's Structural Adjustment Programme, with the intention of obtaining concessional financing through the Extended Credit Facility, they observed.
The diaspora demands that IMF Mission Chief to Kenya, Haimanot Teferra, take responsibility for the economic conditions that have spurred widespread civil unrest in Kenya. They highlighted their direct impact, stating, “As a diaspora, we are directly affected by over-taxation as we send Sh671 billion in remittances, targeted by the Ruto regime and IMF fiscal policies that fuel corruption.”
The Kenya Red Cross and medical professionals who put their lives in danger to treat injured demonstrators in need of immediate attention were also praised by the group. The Kenyan diaspora in the US is organizing a fundraising campaign to support these vital activities, showcasing their ongoing dedication to supporting their fellow citizens in their home country during these trying times.
