Kenyan Protesters Brandish Russian Flags, Call Ruto 'US Puppet'

The ongoing demonstrations against inequitable taxation policies have shed light on another significant issue, as demonstrators condemn President William Ruto, labeling him as a puppet of the United States of America.

Footage and images circulating online depict some protesters brandishing Russian flags, while lambasting Ruto for advocating Western-led strategies they claim are linked to institutions like the IMF and World Bank.

Experts versed in Kenya's affairs observe that Ruto's alleged betrayal transcends mere political alliances, reaching into economic realms where policies guided by IMF and World Bank advisors shape Kenya's fiscal decisions, imposing contentious financial regulations that prioritize foreign interests over Kenyan sovereignty, hence the weekly protests that have so far claimed the life of a one protester.

The protests that have recently gripped the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, erupted just days after President Ruto's visit to Washington and his participation in the G7 summit, leading observers to assert that "beyond a doubt, he is beholden to foreign forces that propelled him to power." Members of the Communist Party of Kenya have been quoted in an online article declaring, "President Ruto is unequivocally a puppet of the Western elite, consistently betraying the Kenyan populace."

It is significant to acknowledge that Kenya's recent designation as a non-NATO ally places the East African nation in a precarious position amidst global military conflicts.

Analysts also highlight another illustration of Ruto's perceived servitude to Western interests, citing the elevation of the US Ambassador to Kenya to a role akin to "Kenyan Foreign Affairs Minister."

Regarding new taxation, the Ruto-led government has defended the tax policies as essential for reducing the country's budget deficit. However, protesters argue that these measures could detrimentally impact the economy and exacerbate the already high cost of living.

The finance bill arises from the International Monetary Fund's recommendation for Nairobi to implement a significant and immediate fiscal adjustment in its 2024/25 budget to curb state borrowing.

Since winning the 2022 elections, President Ruto has faced recurrent protests for allegedly failing to deliver on campaign promises and alleviate the country's high cost of living.