On Tuesday, September 24, 2024, President William Ruto held a significant meeting with Ford Foundation President Darren Walker at the foundation’s headquarters in New York. This meeting came just two months after Ruto had accused the foundation of sponsoring anti-government protests in Kenya. The sudden shift in tone from harsh criticism to a collaborative meeting has sparked heated discussions and debates among Kenyans, both on social media and in political circles.
In July 2024, President Ruto accused the Ford Foundation of funding protests that were intended to destabilize his government. These protests were mainly in response to the controversial Finance Bill 2024, which introduced various tax measures that sparked outrage among the Kenyan public. Many viewed the bill as burdensome, especially for the lower and middle-class citizens.
Ruto’s accusations against the Ford Foundation were severe. He claimed that the foundation, along with other international organizations, had a hidden agenda to interfere with Kenya’s democratic processes by financially supporting those opposing his administration. This accusation created a tense relationship between the Kenyan government and the Ford Foundation, a global organization known for supporting democracy, social justice, and economic development.
Fast forward to September 2024, and the tone had significantly changed. During his visit to New York for a United Nations meeting, Ruto met with Darren Walker and other top officials from the Ford Foundation. The discussions were focused on the foundation’s role in supporting Kenya’s economic development and democratic reforms.
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In a statement after the meeting, Ruto expressed appreciation for the foundation’s continued commitment to Kenya. He acknowledged the organization’s efforts to promote democracy and economic development, as well as its involvement in climate action and technology regulation. “Kenya appreciates the Ford Foundation’s commitment to safeguarding our democracy and supporting Kenya's calls for reforms in global economic institutions, climate action, and modern technology regulation,” Ruto stated.
The meeting between Ruto and the Ford Foundation officials ignited a wave of reactions from Kenyans, many of whom were quick to point out the contradiction between the President's accusations and his current praise for the foundation. Social media was flooded with comments, with many users expressing their confusion and skepticism about the President’s sudden change in stance.
One user, @AnuarSaddat, remarked, "One minute you appreciate their commitment to democracy, the next minute you accuse them of being undemocratic and engaging in treasonous activities of overthrowing your government."
Others were equally critical, questioning the President’s consistency and transparency. @iamJeffCFC tweeted, "And you were fighting Ford Foundation saying that it was financing demonstrations?"
Another user, @MOSESKEYA10, added, "Is this the same Ford Foundation? Kwani niko nchi engine? (Am I in another country?)" The general sentiment seemed to be one of disbelief, with many Kenyans wondering how Ruto could switch from harsh criticism to praise within such a short period.
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Despite the accusations made by President Ruto earlier in the year, the Ford Foundation has consistently denied any involvement in the anti-government protests. In response to the allegations, the foundation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting democratic institutions and peaceful advocacy in East Africa.
The Ford Foundation emphasized that its support is always non-partisan and rooted in promoting justice and democracy. The organization clarified that while it does support peaceful demonstrations, it strongly opposes any form of violence or destabilization. Furthermore, the foundation noted its long-standing partnership with Kenya, including its role in supporting the inaugural African Climate Summit in 2023.
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