Leaders allied with President William Ruto have condemned what they termed the polarization of the youth by opposition leaders in an effort to destabilize the government.
They accused the opposition leaders of relying on unlawful means to push the country toward anarchy and chaos in order to serve their political interests, disguised as liberties.
Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki took a swipe at opposition leaders who had previously held senior government roles, challenging them to account for their performance before criticizing the current administration.
“While some leaders in the opposition are inviting youth into violence, we in government are offering real solutions. We’ve launched direct employment programs and created an environment for youth empowerment,” said Kindiki.
The leaders spoke at an economic empowerment event at Kipkeikei High School in Cherangany, hosted by Trans Nzoia Woman Representative Lilian Siyoi.
He emphasized that the Kenya Kwanza administration has laid out “deliberate strategies” to address joblessness among the youth and promote inclusive economic development.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula echoed Kindiki’s sentiments, cautioning the youth against being manipulated by political actors.
“What we are witnessing on the streets is not peaceful demonstrations—it’s riots. The Constitution protects lawful protests, but the law is also clear about maintaining order,” Wetang’ula remarked.
South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro warned of legal consequences for those engaging in violent demonstrations.
“Those mobilizing youth to cause mayhem will be held personally accountable. The police are within the law to act in such cases under the Police Act,” Osoro stated.
Woman Representative Siyoi, meanwhile, called on leaders to embrace peace and dialogue, highlighting the disproportionate impact of violence on women and families.
“Those inciting youth into chaos forget that women bear the brunt—through displacement, fear, and trauma. We must reject the politics of violence,” she urged.
The leaders accused sections of the opposition of attempting to destabilize the country through orchestrated chaos, intending to portray Kenya as ungovernable.
They reiterated their support for peaceful demonstrations but rejected violence as a legitimate form of protest.
Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang and other local leaders expressed strong support for President Ruto’s re-election in 2027, dismissing the opposition as lacking vision or a credible alternative plan for the country.
Addressing concerns about recent political rifts in Central Kenya, the leaders downplayed claims of ethnic profiling, noting that internal political disagreements should not be construed as tribal animosity.
The leaders also encouraged residents to register for the new Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), describing it as a key government initiative to reduce the cost of healthcare and improve access.