Courtesy: CNN
Kenya’s President William Ruto Accuses Ford Foundation of Backing Protests, while Ford Foundation Denies Claims.
By AFP – Agence France Presse
July 15, 2024
Kenyan President William Ruto on Monday accused the US-based Ford Foundation of sponsoring “anarchy” and funding anti-government protests that descended into deadly mayhem last month.
The East African powerhouse has been plunged into political chaos over the demonstrations. They started out as peaceful rallies led by Gen-Z Kenyans. Against, proposed tax hikes but have spiraled into a wider campaign against Ruto and his administration.
Dozens of people have been killed since the protests began a month ago, with the deadliest day on June 25 when angry crowds stormed parliament and police fired live bullets on protesters.
“Those behind sponsoring the chaos in the Republic of Kenya, shame on them because they are sponsoring violence against our democratic nation,” Ruto said at an event in the Rift Valley town of Nakuru. “I want to ask the people of Ford Foundation, that money they are giving out to sponsor violence, how are they going to benefit,”
Ruto told a large crowd gathered to hear him speak.
“We are going to tell them if they are not interested in democracy in Kenya, if they are going to sponsor violence in Kenya, if they are going to sponsor anarchy, we are going to call them out and we are going to tell them that they either style up or they leave.”
The Ford Foundation’s East Africa office in Nairobi and the US embassy did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The organization, established in 1936 by Edsel Ford, the son of Ford Motor Company founder Henry Ford, operates across the world and aims to advance social justice and promote democratic values. It has offered grants to various Kenyan rights groups and civic organizations for the last few decades.
President Ruto, who is scrambling to put the lid on the worst crisis of his near two-year presidency, has previously accused unnamed foreign elements of stoking unrest during the demonstrations. Notably, Street protests have eased off recently, but activists have called for fresh action on Tuesday.
Ford Foundation Denies Funding Protest Allegations
In response to President Ruto’s accusations, the Ford Foundation denied any involvement in the funding of protests or supporting violence in Kenya. Samantha Luseno, a representative from the Ford Foundation East Africa office, stated:
“We categorically deny the claims made by President Ruto. The Ford Foundation has always been committed to promoting social justice and democratic values, and we have not funded any activities that would incite violence or anarchy.” Thus, officially Ford Foundation Denies these allegations.
Samantha Luseno
Luseno further emphasized the foundation’s longstanding role in supporting various development initiatives in Kenya. “The Ford Foundation Kenya office has been providing grants to civil society organizations that work towards: human rights, education, and economic empowerment. Our work is transparent and focused on positive community impact,” she added.
The Ford Foundation has played a pivotal role in supporting civil society in Kenya. The foundation has facilitated numerous grants aimed at enhancing social justice, promoting economic opportunities, and supporting educational programs. However, the recent accusations have put the foundation’s activities under intense scrutiny.
Impact on Ford Foundation’s Operations in Kenya
The allegations have raised concerns about the future of the Ford Foundation’s operations in Kenya. The foundation has been instrumental in providing resources. In addition, provides support to various non-governmental organizations and community-based groups in the country. If the accusations are not resolved amicably, there could be significant ramifications for the ongoing projects funded by the Ford Foundation in Kenya.
Moreover, the controversy could affect the foundation’s ability to attract and retain talent in the region. Ford Foundation jobs in Kenya have been highly sought after, given the foundation’s reputation for fostering professional growth and providing opportunities to work on impactful projects. However, the current political climate may deter potential applicants and impact the morale of existing employees.
Broader Implications for International NGOs
The situation also highlights the broader challenges faced by international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in politically volatile environments. The Ford Foundation Nairobi office, like many other international NGOs, must navigate complex political landscapes while remaining true to its mission of promoting social justice and democracy. The foundation’s leadership will need to engage in diplomatic efforts to clarify their stance and ensure the continuation of their work in Kenya.
As the situation unfolds, the focus will be on how the Ford Foundation and the Kenyan government address the allegations. Both parties will need to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the issues and ensure that the foundation’s work in Kenya can continue without further disruptions.
In conclusion, the accusations against the Ford Foundation have created a significant stir in Kenya. Thus, raising questions about the role of international organizations in local political dynamics. As President Ruto and the Ford Foundation navigate this contentious issue, the outcome will likely have lasting implications. Especially, for the foundation’s operations in Kenya and the broader landscape of international development efforts in the region.
