Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged Gen Z’s to remain calm, assuring them that the government is open to dialogue and committed to addressing their concerns to end the protests .
Speaking during a public address at Kathiani, Machakos County, Kindiki struck a balance between empathy and resolve, vowing to address the root causes of youth discontent while condemning lawlessness that marred the Wednesday nationwide demonstrations.
“The grievances of our young people are valid we are listening and we are taking that input very seriously and we are ready to dialogue with Gen z’s to end these protest,” said Kindiki.
Kindiki however was also quick to draw a sharp line between peaceful protest and violent unrest accusing a sections of politicians for celebrating the protest that said almost brought the country down .
“There is a difference between democracy and anarchy you cannot use arson, violence, rape, and destruction of public and private property in the guise of pursuit of democratic rights.” he noted.
The Deputy President’s remarks follow a harrowing week in which what began as peaceful demonstrations by the Gen Zs protesting against extra judicial killings turned chaotic leading to several deaths and destruction of property worth millions of shillings .
Also among other grievances aired were economic hardship and joblessness among the youths .
He however pledged deliberate policy and administrative interventions aimed at addressing youth unemployment and economic exclusion.
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to democratic freedoms, Prof Kindiki made it clear that the state will not tolerate criminal acts disguised as activism.
“Yes we will respect and uphold the rights of all citizens freedom of worship, association, movement, and expression but we will not allow the kind of lawlessness witnessed last Wednesday.” said Kindiki .
Deputy President at the same time condemned opposition leaders who he accused of fueling unrest for their own political gain.
“I am shocked to see some politicians celebrating the kind of destruction and lawlessness we all saw on Wednesday there are many people who woke up with possessions and businesses but slept as paupers. Now tell me what mistake did those business people commit to receive such treatment , how can someone seeking to lead this country celebrate anarchy?” noted the DP.
“We are ready and prepared to lose some political popularity to save our country because the safety and security of our nation is not negotiable.We must choose between the rule of law or the rule of gangs and criminal groups .This is the time to make a firm stand because the lines are clearly drawn. those who support the rule of law and a secure nation must stand apart from those supporting anarchy .We must all take a position political leaders, religious leaders, and even our foreign friends.” said the DP.
