Uhuru sparks youth uprising, beefs political firestorm

 
President William Ruto is once again in a conundrum to woo youths and at same time bolster his ‘hustler plan’.
The formation of a broad- based government seems to have irked the Gen Z who believe it was a political skirmish by ODM honcho to secure positions for his point men at the expense of youths whose demands remain unmet.
Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta’s recent call for the nation’s youth to fight for their rights, has become a lightning rod for controversy, sparking strong reactions from political leaders across the spectrum, from President Ruto camp.
Kenyatta, who handed over the reins of power to Ruto in 2022 after serving two terms as president, has not shied away from offering unsolicited advice to his successor, despite being out of office. On 18 January , during a public appearance at a youth empowerment event, Uhuru urged young people to assert themselves and demand accountability from those in power.
“You cannot sit idly by while others decide your fate,” Kenyatta told a group of young people gathered at the event. “It’s your right to demand better governance, a fair opportunity for your future, and the resources that you are entitled to.”
The former Head of State call resonated with many youths, who continue to face challenges like high unemployment rates, education funding model, poor infrastructure, and increasing economic inequality. However, the remarks have not been well received by all, with several key figures in the current government taking issue with Kenyatta’s words, which they interpret as incendiary and divisive.
Ruto who served as Kenyatta’s deputy for nearly a decade, was quick to respond. He expressed his disappointment, describing Kenyatta’s message as an unfortunate attempt to incite the youth against the government.
“I have always believed that the youth are our country’s most valuable resource, and as the government, we are committed to their empowerment. However, it is irresponsible for anyone, especially a former president, to encourage young people to fight against the state,” Ruto said.
The President’s response seemed carefully crafted, positioning him as a champion of the youth while attempting to distance himself from the notion of conflict.
He continued, “The government has rolled out several initiatives aimed at creating job opportunities and providing resources for young people. The youth must understand that their future is secured through unity, not confrontation.”
Ruto’s comments reflect a broader strategy by his administration to present itself as a force for change, focused on practical solutions to the challenges that young Kenyans face. However, Kenyatta’s criticism of his leadership, particularly on matters affecting youth welfare, is something Ruto cannot afford to ignore, especially as tensions between the two leaders remain high.
Majority leader at the National Assembly,Kimani Ichung’wah a key ally of Ruto, took an even firmer stance against Kenyatta’s remarks. Known for his blunt and often combative rhetoric, Ichung’wah accused the former president of attempting to destabilize the government by encouraging discontent among the youth.
“We cannot allow the former president to continue inciting the youth against the sitting government,” he said. “The government is focused on ensuring that the youth have opportunities through programs like the Hustler Fund, which was established to provide accessible credit to young entrepreneurs. This is the real fight we should be supporting, not unnecessary conflict.”
Majority leader’s condemnation underscores the growing divide between the two factions within Kenya’s political arena. While Ruto and his allies seek to present a united front, Kenyatta’s challenge has highlighted the tensions between his legacy and the new administration’s vision.
His utterances may also be seen as an attempt to rally the government’s supporters and position himself as a strong defender of the administration’s policies.
On the other side of the political divide, opposition leaders have largely supported Kenyatta’s call, seeing it as a powerful reminder of the youth’s right to hold those in power accountable. Edwin Sifuna, a prominent member of the opposition and Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), commended Kenyatta for speaking out.
“Uhuru Kenyatta has spoken the truth,” Sifuna said. “For far too long, the youth in Kenya have been neglected and ignored by those in power. It is time they demand what is rightfully theirs. Their future cannot be sacrificed at the altar of political expediency.”
Sifuna’s comments reflect the opposition’s strategy of using Kenyatta’s words to frame the current government as out of touch with the needs of the youth. By rallying behind the former president, Sifuna and other opposition leaders hope to capitalize on the dissatisfaction among young people, especially in light of ongoing economic struggles,the high cost of living, abductions and killings.
Sifuna also emphasized the importance of civic engagement, stating, “The youth must be encouraged to actively participate in the political process. It is only through this kind of engagement that they will hold the government accountable and ensure that their voices are heard.”
At the heart of this debate lies the question of how the youth should engage with the political system. Kenyatta’s speech has ignited a conversation about youth empowerment, urging young people to take ownership of their future. However, his choice of words—particularly the call to “fight for your rights”—has left room for interpretation. While many have welcomed the sentiment as an endorsement of youth activism, others fear that it could lead to unrest or fuel an already volatile political climate.
For some young Kenyans, Kenyatta’s message represents a call to action, a chance to demand better conditions and opportunities. “We have been waiting for too long for the government to act,” said Sarah, a university graduate struggling to find work. “Uhuru is right. We need to take a stand.”
But others remain cautious, wary of the political manipulation that often accompanies calls for youth mobilization. “We need to be careful about whose agenda we’re advancing,” said Daniel, a community organizer in Nairobi. “It’s not just about fighting for our rights; it’s about creating a sustainable future.”
As the political class continues to react to Kenyatta’s remarks, it remains to be seen how the youth will respond. Will they take up the mantle of activism and demand change? Or will the rhetoric of the political elite continue to drown out their voices, leaving them to navigate an uncertain future?