Kenyan President Proposes Budget Cuts Amid Protests

Kenyan President William Ruto has proposed a $1.39 billion spending cut and an increase in borrowing to address a $2.7 billion budget shortfall after withdrawing planned tax hikes due to nationwide protests. The austerity measures aim to secure parliamentary approval and reduce deficits, impacting critical sectors like education and agriculture. The protests, which turned violent, resulted in the cancellation of contentious tax proposals, leading to a significant financial gap in the budget. Ruto's strategy includes eliminating overlapping functions in state corporations, reducing government advisors, and suspending non-essential travel to address economic challenges while facing calls for his resignation amidst youth-led demonstrations.