Govt to support the deceased, people injured during protests- Ruto

President William Ruto has said the government will support all those injured and the families of those who lost their lives as a result of the Finance Bill 2024 protests which rocked the country.

In a remorseful tone, Ruto expressed his sympathies with the family and friends of those who lost their lives, saying ‘one life lost is a life too many.’

“The last two weeks have been a difficult time for us as a country where Kenyans have regrettably lost lives, many have been injured and our constitutional institutions attacked,” Ruto said.

“I extend my deepest condolences to those who unfortunately lost their lives. One life lost is a life too many. To the mothers, fathers, siblings, relatives and friends of those who lost their loved ones, my deepest sympathies and condolences to you all,” he added.

Ruto wished those who are currently in hospitals and recuperating a quick recovery, promising them government support.

“The government of Kenya will support all those who’ve lost their lives and those who’ve been injured,” Ruto assured.

Effect of protests

He expressed confidence that the nation had moved from the discussion of tribes, and was on a path of discussing issues.

“Despite all this, as a nation, we are finally having the right conversation, not about our tribes, or personalities, or political formations, but rather issues that affect each and every one of us: issues such as taxation, debt, the budget, corruption, the cost of living, unemployment, and opportunities for our young people,” Ruto noted.

Ruto promised the young people a virtual meeting as per their demands at a presidential round-table interview with three journalists on Sunday, June 30, 2024, after they rejected a proposed multi-sectoral meeting.

“I am hearing that the young people are saying they don’t want a multi-sectoral forum, maybe we should have an engagement with the President on X. I am open to having an engagement with the young people on a forum they are comfortable with. If they want me to engage them on X, I will be there,” Ruto said.