Ruto’s Cabinet Minister Responds to Uhuru Over Gen Z Protest Support
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s call for the youth to rise and fight for their rights has triggered political uproar, drawing sharp criticism from Environment Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale.
Uhuru’s Friday remarks, delivered during the burial of a relative, have reignited debates on leadership responsibility and the tone set by former and current leaders.
Speaking on Saturday during an alumni gathering at Garissa High School, Duale lashed out at the former President, terming his comments as reckless and potentially inciting unrest.
According to Duale, Uhuru’s statement undermines President William Ruto’s administration and could set a dangerous precedent for the youth.
“It is deeply regrettable when leaders, whether in office or retired, encourage our young people to take actions that might result in violence or disobedience,” said Duale.
“By doing so, we risk losing the moral authority to guide the next generation. Former President Uhuru should instead focus on fostering unity and peace in the country.”
Duale further urged political leaders to lead by example, cautioning against statements that could stir discord.
He reminded Uhuru of his previous role as the Head of State, emphasizing that such remarks were unbecoming for someone of his stature.
“You had your time to lead this country. It is wrong to encourage the youth to engage in violence. Instead, as elders, we should be promoting peace and stability for the benefit of future generations,” Duale added.
However, Duale refrained from addressing controversial remarks made by other political leaders, including Daadab MP Farah Maalim and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who have come under fire for their divisive comments.
Uhuru’s Remarks Ignite Debate
While speaking on Friday, Uhuru encouraged the youth, particularly Gen Z, to stand up for their rights and resist exploitation.
“The problem today is that people are too afraid. Gen Z is the future. Stand up and fight for your rights. Ensure that what belongs to you is not taken away,” Uhuru stated.
He urged young people to defend their hard-earned achievements, warning them not to remain silent when their wealth and opportunities are being stripped away.
“Everything worth having is worth fighting for. If you don’t fight for it, don’t complain when it’s taken,” he added.
Uhuru’s remarks come at a time when the country is grappling with increasing cases of abductions, many of which allegedly target young people who criticize the government on social media.
Mounting Pressure on Ruto’s Administration
President William Ruto’s government is facing mounting criticism over the alleged abductions, which his administration has repeatedly denied orchestrating.
Calls for action have grown louder, with opposition leaders and human rights groups demanding an end to these incidents.
During the burial of Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) Chairperson Roseline Adhiambo Odede on Saturday, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga joined the chorus of condemnation.
Raila reminded Ruto of his promise to end the abductions and demanded immediate action.
“I made it clear before the year ended that these abductions must stop. If the President said they would end, then he must deliver on that promise. We cannot continue targeting these young people,” Raila said.
Political Tensions Ahead of 2027 Elections
The ongoing exchanges between leaders come against the backdrop of a politically charged environment as the country edges closer to the 2027 general elections.
Recent divisions and alliances, including those within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), are taking shape as leaders jostle for influence.
The Gen Z protests, which peaked in June last year with the storming and burning of Parliament, remain a contentious issue. Leaders continue to trade accusations over who funded the demonstrations, further deepening the political divide.
While Uhuru’s remarks have rekindled discussions on the youth’s role in governance, they also risk straining the fragile political truce recently established between him and his successor.
As political temperatures rise, the nation braces for an intensifying battle of ideologies, with leadership and accountability taking center stage.
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