Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura. | PHOTO: @MwauraIsaac1/X
By: Cynthia Masibo
The government has issued a stern warning to the youth and other Kenyans planning to participate in the Nane Nane protests today.
Through the government Spokesman, Dr Isaac Maigua Mwaura, the State has urged them to avoid engaging in activities that call for violence.
In a press confrence yesterday, Dr Mwaura advised the Generation Z, who have been at the forefront of organizing the demonstrations, to refrain from unchecked protests.
Mwaura emphasized that misinformation circulating on social media has significantly contributed to the recent wave of protests across the country.
He claimed that the original intentions behind these demonstrations have been co-opted by individuals with ulterior motives, aiming to destabilize Kenya for personal gain.
“The misinformation, mainly on social media, also contributed to recent protests in the country, whereby unscrupulous individuals and formations hijacked them for selfish gains, with an aim of destabilizing our great country, Kenya,” Mwaura’s stated
He stressed the importance of peace and stability, urging the youth to recognize that violent protests offer little benefit and instead lead to further economic hardships, which could hinder their employment opportunities.
“The government urges the youth to ignore these calls to violence, as they offer little benefit to them and instead emphasize the importance of peace and stability. Young people should avoid unchecked protests, which could lead to further economic hardships and hinder their chances of gaining employment,” he added.
Mwaura noted that most parts of the country are still recovering from the recent series of protests. To facilitate full recovery, he urged protesters to use appropriate channels to voice their concerns.
Mwaura called on the youth to demonstrate patriotism and support President William Ruto’s efforts to unify the nation. He emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence and adherence to the rule of law as the country navigates through its challenges.
The Nane Nane protests, named after the Swahili term for August 8, are being organized through social media platforms by youth groups disillusioned with President Ruto’s recent political moves. The discontent stems from Ruto’s decision to reappoint ten out of the 22 Cabinet Secretaries he had previously dismissed, as well as his nomination of individuals from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party to his cabinet.
These decisions have sparked outrage among the youth, who see them as a betrayal of the president’s earlier promises for a more inclusive and representative government. The protests are expected to be widespread, with significant participation from young people across various cities.
He urged Kenyans to embrace dialogue and cooperation, highlighting the need for unity and collective effort in addressing the nation’s challenges.
As the nation braces for the Nane Nane demonstrations, the government’s message is clear: peace and stability are paramount, and the youth are encouraged to channel their energy and grievances through lawful and constructive means. The hope is that by doing so, Kenya can navigate its current challenges and emerge stronger and more unified.
Yesterday, while addressing various meetings in Embu County where he launched and commissioned several projects, President Ruto said the country thrived on democratic principles and would not entertain anarchy.