Ruto Clashes with Judiciary over Blocked Policies, Raising Dictatorship Fears
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President Ruto has accused judges of working with the opposition to block his policies like an affordable housing fund and healthcare initiatives. He has threatened to disobey court orders.
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Ruto's predecessor started an affordable housing project in 2018. Ruto planned to expand it by deducting money from people's salaries, but courts blocked this as unconstitutional.
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Ruto's housing levy and other reforms like subsidy cuts have faced legal challenges amid Kenya's economic struggles. This seems to have triggered Ruto's frustration with the judiciary.
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Ruto's attacks on the judiciary have raised fears of a return to dictatorship. Critics compare him to past autocrat Daniel Arap Moi. Opposition leader Raila Odinga also criticized Ruto.
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In response, the Chief Justice warned Ruto risks causing anarchy. The Law Society of Kenya called for protests against Ruto's remarks and is considering suing him.