President William Ruto issues new directives on education and taxation

President William Ruto has issued several directives that highlight growing tensions between presidential promises and established government procedures in Kenya. Regarding education, the President announced a shift in the timeline for the government's promised free university and college funding. While previously slated for September 2026, the new funding model for universities, TVET institutions, and the Kenya Medical Training College is now expected to be operational around January 2027.

In the economic sector, the President intervened in a tax dispute between small traders and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). Following complaints that taxes on consolidated goods had risen from Sh2.5 million to Sh3.2 million, Ruto directed the KRA to reduce the rate to Sh2 million. This intervention has raised questions regarding the interaction between presidential orders and statutory taxation processes.

Additionally, President Ruto ordered a nationwide crackdown on foreigners operating small businesses, instructing hawkers to close by September 7. He also issued a directive for Tata Chemicals Magadi to leave the country.