American politician Ilhan Omar, a Democratic representative serving in Minnesota, has expressed concern over the austerity measures imposed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Kenya, highlighting their impact on the country’s cost of living.
In her statement, Omar explained that these measures disproportionately affect the most vulnerable segments of society, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among citizens. She emphasized that these austerity policies need to be urgently addressed to help stabilize and resolve Kenya’s economic challenges.
“It’s also crucial to recognize that the International Monetary Fund’s austerity conditions have contributed to the economic hardships facing Kenyan citizens. These measures often disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations and can exacerbate social unrest,” the statement read in part.
Omar also alluded to brute force used by police officers on the protestors and questioned why law enforcement officers would use live bullets and excessive force.
“I am deeply concerned about the escalating violence in Kenya in response to nationwide protests. Reports of police using live ammunition, employing excessive force, targeting journalists, and forcibly disappearing protesters are deeply troubling and must be immediately addressed,” Omar explained.
“The right to peacefully protest is enshrined in Kenya’s constitution and must be respected by authorities. The use of deadly force against civilians exercising their democratic rights not only violates basic human rights but also undermines Kenya’s democratic foundations.”
Omar expressed her solidarity with Kenyans on matters of fighting against the IMF-imposed austerity measures and police brutality.
“It is imperative that protesters remain peaceful as they continue to demand change. I stand in solidarity with the people in the wake of both state violence and IMF-imposed austerity measures.
The Kenyan government must immediately disclose the location and condition of all those who have been taken into custody or disappeared, cease the use of excessive force, respect the right to peacefully protest, and continue to engage in meaningful dialogue to address the legitimate concerns of its citizens,” she added.
Ilhan Omar, who became the first African refugee to serve as a Member of Congress after being sworn into office in 2019, has a background as an experienced policy analyst, public speaker, and advocate.
Since assuming office in 2022, President William Ruto has turned to IMF loans to address Kenya’s economic challenges and manage its debt crisis. The most recent loan, amounting to Ksh.110 billion, was received in January 2024 to help with the repayment of Eurobonds before their maturity in June 2024.
In exchange for these loans, the IMF has required Ruto’s administration to implement stringent austerity measures aimed at revitalizing the economy. These measures included eliminating subsidies on fuel and maize flour, as well as doubling the VAT on fuel from 8 percent to 16 percent.
These economic policies have sparked public criticism due to their impact on the cost of living and the perceived extravagance of the government amidst calls for Kenyans to tighten their belts during these challenging economic times. The recent anti-Finance Bill protests underscored public discontent, prompting IMF Communications Director Julie Kozack to reaffirm the IMF’s commitment to supporting Kenya as it navigates its economic difficulties.
“Our main goal in supporting Kenya is to help it overcome the difficult economic challenges it faces & improve its economic prospects & well being of its people,” she said.
