Ruto praises Ford Foundation at UNGA despite earlier claims of funding protests

President William Ruto has shifted his stance on the Ford Foundation after meeting with its president, Darren Walker, at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) 79 in New York.

The meeting, held on Tuesday, marks a notable change from Ruto's previous accusations against the organisation, which he had claimed was funding anti-government protests from mid-June to August 2024.

During their discussions, Ruto said Kenya is committed to democratic governance, the rule of law and human rights.

Both leaders acknowledged the growing global trend of democratic backsliding, highlighting the need to protect democracy in Africa from threats such as disinformation and the misuse of digital platforms.

Ford Foundation President Walker commended Ruto for his strong advocacy for reforms in global economic governance, climate change, and technology regulation.

He reiterated the Ford Foundation's commitment to supporting the Kenyan government in addressing the critical issues.

Ruto's praise of the Ford Foundation has raised eyebrows, particularly given his earlier statements that accused the organisation of inciting violence and chaos.

“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 said during the meeting.

Kenya appreciates the Ford Foundation’s commitment to safeguarding our democracy and supporting Kenya's calls for reforms in the global economic institutions, climate action and modern technology regulation.

Held talks with the President of the Ford Foundation Darren Walker in… pic.twitter.com/Qs0Q18HJN6

— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) September 24, 2024

In July, Ruto had publicly condemned the foundation, stating that it was responsible for the unrest that led to property destruction and looting across the country.

“We are going to call them out... if they are going to sponsor violence and anarchy, we are going to call them out and we are going to tell them they either style up or they leave. We ask the Ford Foundation to explain to Kenyans its role in the recent protests. We will call out all those who are bent on rolling back our hard-won democracy,” Ruto said then.

Following the accusations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs demanded transparency from the Ford Foundation, seeking detailed information about its beneficiaries, approved programs, budgets and disbursements over the past year.

However, the foundation distanced itself from the claims, reaffirming its dedication to social justice.

“While we continue to acknowledge the right of Kenyans to peacefully advocate for a just and equitable country, we repudiate any actions or speech that are hateful or advocate violence against any institution, individual, or community,” the foundation said.