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On July 21, 2024, President William Ruto delivered a significant speech in Bomet, addressing ongoing protests and outlining his plans to tackle the unrest that has affected Kenya.
His remarks focused on the need to restore order and prioritize national interests over individual or group demands.
This speech, however, drew sharp criticism from Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who took to the media the following day to challenge Ruto’s comments and offer a broader critique of the current political climate.
In his address, President Ruto underscored his commitment to ending the chaos and destruction that has accompanied recent protests.
He highlighted that while different groups have voiced their concerns, the government’s priority is to safeguard the nation’s stability.
Ruto vowed to take strong measures to prevent further violence and property damage, asserting that the country’s well-being must come before any particular group’s agenda.
He expressed frustration over what he perceived as a lack of genuine dialogue from certain quarters, particularly from Gen Zs, the younger generation who have been active in the protests.
Ruto specifically addressed his attempts to engage with Gen Zs, criticizing their perceived unwillingness to participate in discussions about the protests.
He mentioned that he had invited them to discuss their grievances through various platforms, including social media, but felt that they had not shown genuine interest in constructive dialogue.
According to Ruto, this reluctance to engage has complicated efforts to address the issues fueling the protests.
He urged all Kenyans to come together, emphasizing that maintaining democracy and protecting the nation are paramount.
The President’s comments about Gen Zs and the handling of protests did not go unnoticed. Kalonzo Musyoka, a key figure in the Azimio la Umoja coalition, responded strongly to Ruto’s remarks.
On July 22, Musyoka held a press conference where he addressed the President’s statements directly. Musyoka’s response was both a critique of Ruto’s approach and a broader commentary on Kenya’s political situation.
Musyoka’s main point was that no leader should act as if they own the country. He argued that Kenya has progressed beyond the influence of certain leaders and that Ruto’s comments reflected a misunderstanding of the current political and social dynamics.
Musyoka emphasized that the country has moved forward and that it is essential for leaders to acknowledge and adapt to these changes.
His criticism was aimed at challenging Ruto’s perceived arrogance and suggesting that the President’s approach to handling dissent was outdated and out of touch with the realities of modern Kenya.
In addition to his critique of Ruto’s handling of protests and Gen Zs, Musyoka also addressed the broader political context, including the proposed coalition government between ODM leader Raila Odinga and Ruto’s administration.
On July 19, 2024, leaders from the Azimio coalition, led by Musyoka, publicly opposed the idea of a coalition with Ruto’s government.
They argued that such a coalition would betray the younger generation and other citizens who have been actively protesting against the current administration.
Musyoka’s opposition to the coalition is rooted in concerns about political integrity and representation.
He believes that forming a coalition with Ruto’s government would undermine the trust and expectations of those who have been advocating for change and justice.
The Azimio leaders argue that the coalition could be seen as a betrayal of the movement’s principles and the demands of the people who have taken to the streets in protest.
On one side, Ruto’s administration is focused on restoring order and addressing the challenges posed by protests, while on the other, opposition leaders like Musyoka are pushing back against what they perceive as a disregard for genuine dialogue and political reform.
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