Nairobi News

President William Ruto yesterday received a call from the United States of America (USA) over the protests that have rocked the country for the past two weeks.

The call was made by US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, who urged President Ruto to ensure that he does everything possible to ensure that Kenya remains peaceful.

Mr Blinken also stressed the importance of reducing tensions and ensuring that security services do not use excessive force, which has led to deaths during protests.

“In a call with Kenyan President Ruto, @SecBlinken emphasized the importance of reducing tensions and ensuring security services demonstrate restraint and refrain from violence. The U.S. will remain a steadfast partner of Kenya’s government and people as they address economic challenges,” a statement by Mathew Miller who works as Mr Blinken’s spokesperson.

The call came shortly after President William Ruto declined to sign the bill into law, instead sending it back to Parliament.

The Head of State also proposed a number of amendments to the bill for MPs to consider.

“I concede,” he said, adding that he would not sign the bill.

The Head of State also said that among the cuts the government will consider implementing are: allocations meant for travel, hospitality, purchase of motor vehicles and renovations.

“In this regard, I direct immediate further austerity measures to reduce expenditure, starting with the Executive Office of the President,” he said.

Ruto also directed that the Judiciary, the County governments and the Legislature liaise with the National Treasury and initiate budget cuts.

“County Governments working with the National Treasury also undertake budget cuts and austerity to ensure that we do what I have always advocated for, that we live within our means,” President Ruto said.

At least 23 people on Tuesday lost their lives when protesters demonstrated in the city before they managed to forcefully enter parliament where they caused mayhem.