Mandera Senator Ali Roba’s Take On Gen Z

BY MURIMI WANJIKU

Fellow Kenyans, particularly the youth of Generation Z, I want to share my professional journey and the insights I’ve gained. Before venturing into politics, I served as a pilot and Director of Flight Operations for a multinational corporation engaged in humanitarian relief. My career included significant collaborations with global entities such as the World Food Program, United Nations Humanitarian Air Services, UNHCR, the International Committee of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, the European Union, and various other international organizations. For a decade, I was deeply involved in relief operations across war-torn regions like South Sudan, Darfur, Chad, the Central African Republic, Congo, Liberia, Afghanistan, and Somalia.

During this period, I witnessed firsthand the severe hardships endured by people in these conflict zones. From 2002 onwards, especially during Operation Lifeline Sudan, we saw unimaginable suffering. This experience has profoundly shaped my perspective.

Currently, I am deeply concerned about the ongoing unrest in our country. Some leaders are encouraging our youth to engage in demonstrations, even suggesting the occupation of state institutions. Such actions have led to widespread looting and destruction of public property. If we allow this situation to spiral out of control, it could lead to irreversible damage and plunge our nation into chaos, similar to what I observed in many war-torn countries.

In these nations, the descent into anarchy often began with youth-led demonstrations that escalated uncontrollably, sometimes with political figures fueling the unrest for their own gain. In Kenya, we are fortunate to have a democratically elected government. Attempting to disrupt this system through violence and anarchy is not only reckless but also dangerous.

I urge our youth to exercise restraint. The freedom to protest and express dissent is a crucial part of our democracy, but it must be done responsibly. The recent protests have already achieved a significant milestone by prompting the government to reconsider its stance on the finance bill. Continuing down a path of lawlessness will only harm our nation and its economy, potentially leading to massive unemployment and the exodus of multinational corporations.

We must understand that the grievances over the finance bill are minor compared to the potential devastation of national anarchy. Reflect on the broader consequences of your actions. Unchecked protests could lead to a future where everyone suffers, and the initial cause of the unrest is overshadowed by the resultant chaos.

I appeal to you to read and respect the freedoms guaranteed by our constitution. Exercise these rights without infringing on others’ rights, including the rights of businesses. Restraint and reason must guide our actions. While it may be unpopular to advocate for moderation, it is essential for the stability and future of our country.

Thank you for considering this perspective.