Image: DPCS
Kirinyaga County, July 20, 2024 - Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on Kenya's Gen Z to halt their anti-government protests, assuring them that their concerns have been heard and will be addressed by the government.
Speaking on Saturday in Kirinyaga County, Gachagua acknowledged the youth’s right to protest but raised concerns about the infiltration of these protests by individuals with criminal intentions.
During his address, Gachagua emphasized that the government is aware of the grievances expressed by the young protesters.
He assured them that their message has been received loud and clear, without any need for further clarification.
"Tafadhali Gen Zs, my sons and daughters, please, we have heard you. What you have said needs no full stops or commas; it is clear," Gachagua stated.
The Deputy President noted that while the right to protest is respected, the presence of criminal elements within these protests has led to looting and property destruction.
He urged the youth to be vigilant and prevent their peaceful demonstrations from being hijacked by individuals with ulterior motives.
"When you come out to picket, some criminals infiltrate your demonstrations and start looting. We want to ask the Gen Zs, please don't allow your protest to be hijacked by people with criminal intent to steal and destroy property," Gachagua added.
Gachagua reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the issues raised by the youth.
He urged them to give the Kenya Kwanza administration time to act on their demands, highlighting that immediate actions are being considered to tackle their concerns.
"What you have said is enough; you need not say anything more. The President, government, and everybody have heard you. Now let us wait for the action that follows," he reassured.
The protests by Kenya's Gen Z have been driven by a variety of issues, including unemployment, corruption, and governance challenges.
The youth have been vocal in demanding transparency and accountability from the government.
However, the involvement of criminal elements has marred the otherwise peaceful protests, leading to clashes with law enforcement and incidents of vandalism.
Several other leaders accompanied Gachagua during his visit to Kirinyaga County, including Njeri Maina, the Kirinyaga Woman Representative; John Kaguchia, Mukurwe-ini MP; and Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang'wa.
Former MPs Alfred Mwangi Nderitu, Peter Gitau, Kabinga Wachira Thayu, and Wangui Ngirichi were also present. Their presence underscored the seriousness with which the government is addressing the youth's concerns.
The government has made previous efforts to engage with the youth and address their issues.
These include initiatives aimed at creating job opportunities, enhancing vocational training, and supporting entrepreneurship.
However, the effectiveness of these measures has been questioned, leading to the continued unrest among the youth.
Gachagua’s call for patience suggests that the government is working on more comprehensive solutions to the problems facing the youth.
This includes tackling corruption, improving service delivery, and creating an environment conducive to economic growth and job creation.
The protests by Kenya's Gen Z are part of a broader trend of youth activism seen across Africa and other parts of the world.
Young people are increasingly demanding a say in how their countries are governed, seeking more accountability, transparency, and opportunities.
The Kenyan government’s response to these protests will be closely watched as a measure of its commitment to addressing the needs of its young population.
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