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IMF should work with Kenya to account for public funds, says rights group ========== Advocacy group Human Rights Watch called for greater accountability of public funds in Kenya, urging the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to work with the Kenyan government to ensure that corruption doesn't divert funds meant to improve the lives of ordinary people. Kenyans have been protesting for four consecutive weeks against the high cost of living, corruption, and misuse of the country's finances. The protests have evolved into a demand for the end of President William Ruto's government. Kenya's debt pressures led the IMF to approve $941 million in January, bringing the total amount loaned to the country to $3.9 billion. Kenyans have raised concerns about heavy borrowing, arguing that it has not improved their lives while they are burdened with increased taxes to repay the loans. Human Rights Watch also called for the Kenyan government to be accountable to the IMF and other foreign loan providers, as well as for the revenue it collects within the country. Activists have demanded transparency regarding the country's total current debt, including the amount owed to China. The Kenyan government has formed a task force to audit the country's debt and report back by the end of September. The United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights has highlighted Kenya's issues with illicit financial flows, tax avoidance, and corruption involving top government officials. Human Rights Watch argues that aligning economic policies with human rights on all levels could help solve many countries' problems. #Imf #Kenya #PublicFunds #HumanRights #Protests #Corruption https://www.voanews.com/a/imf-should-work-with-kenya-to-account-for-public-funds-says-rights-advocate/7700485.html