Clergy Urges Generation Z to Postpone Planned Protests
By Baraka Simba
In a bid to restore stability amidst growing tensions, the Church has appealed to Generation Z to reconsider their plans for a third wave of protests scheduled for Tuesday.
Following the successful withdrawal of the punitive Finance Bill 2024 due to extensive youth protests, Kenyan youths are now gearing up for another large-scale demonstration. This time, their demands aim to address broader issues affecting the welfare of the country. However, the clergy, represented by the Church and Clergy Association of Kenya (CCAK), has expressed deep concern over the potential consequences of continued protests.
CCAK Chairman, Hardson Ndenda, highlighted the losses in life and property incurred during previous protests, emphasizing the church’s stance on supporting efforts for a better Kenya. “Our youths, we support you because you are our children whom we have nurtured. The issues you are raising are the same challenges we face, so we stand with you,” Ndenda affirmed.
Despite supporting the youth’s cause, the church underscored the importance of pursuing reconciliation and dialogue. Bishop John Okinda underscored the need for forgiveness, referencing the church’s acceptance of apologies from Members of Parliament who supported the now-withdrawn bill. “As a church, we believe in forgiveness because we ourselves are forgiven by God. If God can forgive us, we too can forgive others. Let us hear them out as we listen to our young people,” Bishop Okinda remarked.
The clergy has urged youths to engage in constructive dialogue with government officials, particularly the head of state, to ensure lasting peace and the well-being of the nation. While acknowledging the constitutional right to express dissent, the church emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing tensions.
As the nation prepares for potential further demonstrations, the call from the clergy signals a plea for moderation and dialogue, aiming to find common ground for the benefit of all Kenyans.
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