(In Kenya) No New Taxes: President Ruto Yields to Public Pressure, Sparks Celebration

 

Zakayo Ameshuka is making waves in Kenya after President William Ruto announced that his government will not introduce new taxes in the upcoming financial year.

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The phrase, meaning "Zakayo has come down," refers to Ruto as a symbolic tax collector and reflects public relief over the decision. Kenyans see the move as a response to growing pressure against high taxation and economic hardship.

The phrase "Zakayo," borrowed from the biblical Zacchaeus, has become a satirical nickname for President Ruto due to his administration’s aggressive tax policies. 

With many Kenyans frustrated by the rising cost of living, the president’s announcement sparked celebration on social media. Youths and civic activists claimed victory, interpreting the concession as a sign that their protests and criticism were finally acknowledged by the government.