President William Ruto is grappling with escalating political, economic and diplomatic challenges, despite his truce with opposition leader Raila Odinga, a new US Congress report shows.
The report also claims Kenya is embroiled in human rights abuses that threaten to damage its international standing ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The revelations are detailed in a recent report by the US Congressional Research Service (CRS), which outlines the complex environment Ruto must navigate as he positions himself for re-election.
Titled 'Kenya: Current Issues and US. Relations', the report says the Kenyan youth, popularly known as the Gen Z, will for the first time have a decisive role in the next election.
“Ruto continues to face calls for his ouster and allegations of corruption… as his government tries to navigate public opposition to new taxes, manage Kenya’s debt and position Ruto for re-election in 2027,” the report says.
The CRS is a nonpartisan arm of the US Congress, which delivers an in-depth and authoritative analysis to help lawmakers shape foreign policy.
Reports such as this often influence congressional decisions and bilateral relations, in this case, between the US and Kenya.
According to the report, Gen Z – who mounted aggressive protests against Ruto’s administration last year – could play a decisive in the next polls.
