On Monday, July 15, the Ford Foundation responded to accusations made by President William Ruto regarding their alleged involvement in funding the ongoing anti-government protests in Kenya, which have turned violent.
The foundation firmly denied these claims and reaffirmed its recognition of Kenyans’ right to peaceful advocacy for national improvement, which was the stated aim of the protests.
The foundation explicitly stated that it had no involvement in funding or sponsoring the recent demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2024. These protests, which began on June 18, resulted in loss of life, property damage, and injuries, ultimately leading to the withdrawal of the bill.
The foundation’s statement stated:
“While we acknowledge the right of Kenyans to peacefully advocate for a just and equitable country, we repudiate any actions or speech that are hateful or advocate violence against any institution, individual or community.”
“We do not fund or sponsor the recent protests against the finance bill and have a strictly non-partisan policy of all our grantmaking.”
The New York-based organization emphasized its commitment to building upon its 60-year legacy in the region, aiming to help Kenyans unlock opportunities that benefit all citizens.
The foundation also expressed its intention to continue supporting Kenya’s development and leadership on both African and global stages, citing its support for the inaugural African Climate Summit in Nairobi last year as an example.
Ruto Accuses Ford Foundation Of Funding Protests
This response came after President Ruto, speaking in Nakuru, accused the foundation of funding violence and chaos in the country. He warned that Kenya would not descend into anarchy and cautioned the foundation about potential consequences if the alleged actions continued.
President Ruto’s accusation stated:
“Those who are sponsoring the violence, we know them and I want to call out those who are behind the anarchy in Kenya. Shame on them! I want to ask the people from Ford Foundation to explain to us what they seek to gain by destabilizing Kenya’s democracy.”
The protests in Kenya have garnered international attention, with human rights organizations urging the government to handle demonstrators peacefully and avoid excessive force.
In response to the demonstrations, President Ruto withdrew the controversial bill and announced new economic measures. He also called for a debt audit, dismissed his entire cabinet, and was preparing to appoint new officials. Additionally, Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome resigned following calls for his removal.