- President Ruto acknowledged the youth for their active participation in national affairs, commending their fulfillment of democratic duties and promising dialogue to address their concerns.
President William Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua arrive at the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Diocese of Nyahururu in Laikipia on June 23, 2024. IMAGE: PCS
In Summary:
- President Ruto acknowledges and commends the peaceful protests by Kenyan youth against the Finance Bill 2024.
- He announces future plans to allocate resources for youth employment and education.
President William Ruto has finally spoken out about the ongoing protests by Kenyan youth against the Finance Bill 2024.
Addressing a crowd in Nyahururu on Sunday, President Ruto expressed pride in the young people for their peaceful demonstrations, highlighting their efforts to voice concerns beyond tribal lines as a significant act of democracy.
“The youth have taken an active role in national matters, fulfilling their democratic responsibilities by standing up and being heard. We will start a dialogue to understand and address their concerns together,” Ruto said.
He emphasized his admiration for their non-tribal and peaceful approach, promising that his administration is committed to working with them for the nation’s betterment.
Ruto also unveiled plans for the upcoming financial year that focus on creating employment opportunities for the youth and improving access to technical and university education.
This announcement comes in the wake of widespread protests by Generation Z against the Finance Bill 2024, which they argue contains punitive measures.
Protests have erupted across several cities, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisii, Kisumu, Nakuru, Nyeri, and Nanyuki, with demonstrators demanding the rejection of the Bill due to its harsh tax implications.
Despite the widespread opposition, 204 Members of Parliament voted in favor of the Bill, with 105 against it.
The Bill will now move to the Committee of the Whole House for amendments starting next Tuesday.
President Ruto and his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, made these remarks after attending a church service at the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Diocese of Nyahururu.
The service marked the Consecration and Enthronement of Rev. Maj. Samson Mburu Gachathi as the 3rd Bishop of the Diocese.