Government Condemned Over Handling of Protests as Leaders Call for Dialogue

By Baraka Simba

Youth leaders and politicians have sharply criticized the Kenyan government for its handling of protests scheduled for Tuesday under the banner #rejectFinanceBill2024, expressing concerns over the use of excessive force by law enforcement.

At a church service held at Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Church in Pipeline, Nairobi, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka denounced the actions of police officers, accusing them of using disproportionate force against unarmed youths.

“The youths are innocent; all they demand is that our country adheres to the 2010 constitution,” Musyoka stated during the service.

Engineer Wamalwa, former Cabinet Secretary for Defense and leader of DAP Kenya, also voiced his disapproval, particularly targeting Inspector General of Police Japheth Koome.

“It makes no sense for IG Koome to harass Generation Z. If William Ruto genuinely seeks dialogue with the youth, he must first demonstrate goodwill,” Wamalwa asserted. He further challenged President Kenyatta to dismiss IG Koome if he is serious about fostering dialogue.

Jeremiah Kioni, Jubilee Secretary General, joined in the criticism, urging an immediate halt to the labeling of Generation Z as terrorists, a perception he believes is being used to justify violence against them.

“This generation is akin to the Mau Mau fighters; they are fighting for the freedom and progress of our nation,” Kioni declared.

In response to growing unrest, President Kenyatta addressed concerns during a church service in Laikipia County, expressing his readiness for dialogue with the youth.

“I have heard the voices of our young people, and I am prepared to engage in meaningful conversations,” President Kenyatta affirmed.

With tensions escalating ahead of the planned protests, the nation waits to see whether the government will heed calls for restraint and dialogue to address the grievances of Generation Z effectively.