Uhuru Kenyatta Encourages Youth to Fight for Their Rights: “Msiogope”
Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has called on the youth of Kenya to persist in their quest for good governance.
Speaking at the funeral mass of his first cousin, businessman Kibathi Muigai, in Ngong on Friday, January 17, Uhuru emphasized the importance of courage and steadfastness among the younger generation. He assured them of his support in their fight for justice and governance reforms.
He stressed the vital role of Generation Z in shaping Kenya’s future, urging them not to remain passive as their rightful opportunities are taken away. According to Uhuru, the youth hold the potential to unlock the country’s development, which has been stifled by poor leadership.
Pledge of Support and Rallying Call
Uhuru urged young Kenyans to stay committed and fearless, emphasizing that their efforts were pivotal to political change. He noted that every right is worth fighting for, cautioning against complacency.
He stated that Generation Z represents the future and advised them to resist exploitation actively. Uhuru added that he and other leaders stand behind their cause, encouraging them to persevere. His remarks were a bold call to action for the youth to engage in meaningful activism.
Social Media Regulation Plans
The retired president’s speech coincided with government discussions on regulating social media, which has become a critical platform for state criticism. On Thursday, January 16, the Ministry of Interior met with telecommunications firms and social media representatives to explore measures to curb misuse of online platforms.
Proposed Measures
| Measure | Objective |
|---|---|
| Big tech companies to establish offices in Nairobi | Enhance accountability and curb misinformation |
| Stronger enforcement by telecom providers | Combat online abuse and criminal activities |
The government argued that these actions were necessary to address harassment, hate speech, and incitement to violence prevalent on social media.
Social Media as a Tool for Change
Kenyan youth have leveraged platforms like X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Facebook to mobilize against governance issues. In June 2024, social media played a pivotal role in organizing demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2024, which proposed heavy taxation.
These protests saw citizens across the country take to the streets to express their disapproval of the bill, which was unanimously endorsed by Parliament and set for presidential assent. The demonstrations culminated in a dramatic breach of Parliament, prompting President William Ruto to reconsider the bill.
Ruto’s Response to Public Outrage
In a televised address on June 26, 2024, President Ruto acknowledged the public’s grievances. He disclosed that he had consulted lawmakers and stakeholders to rework the controversial bill. Ruto attributed the opposition to deep-seated public discontent with corruption, which he admitted was draining government revenue.
Key Actions Taken by Ruto:
- Withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024: To appease public anger.
- Anti-Corruption Drive: Announced measures to curb corruption and enhance revenue collection.
- Austerity Measures: Directed budget cuts and expenditure reductions in government.
- Engagement with Youth: Expressed willingness to collaborate with the youth who had championed the protests.
- Cabinet Reorganization: Responded to public criticism of Cabinet Secretaries by restructuring his executive team.
Continued Activism and Criticism
Despite these measures, anti-regime activism persisted. Activists have used various forms of protest, including satirical depictions of government officials, to express their discontent. The Kenyan internet remains a crucial space for dissent, amplifying calls for accountability and governance reform.
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Conclusion
Uhuru Kenyatta’s rallying call to Generation Z and his endorsement of their activism underscores the growing influence of youth movements in Kenya. As the government grapples with public dissatisfaction and increasing demands for transparency, the role of social media and youth-driven advocacy remains central to shaping the nation’s political landscape.
