- It wasn’t ODM that took to the streets in protest, but the Gen Zs, whose voices demanded change and justice
- Ruto’s move to reward ODM with Cabinet positions while dismissing the concerns of these young protesters is a short-sighted strategy
- Ignoring their legitimate grievances is a ticking time bomb that could have serious repercussions for his administration
President Ruto’s recent move to release a new list of Cabinet Secretaries (CSs) that includes members from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has sparked controversy. This decision appears to be an attempt to placate the opposition, which he perceives as the instigators of protests against his administration. However, this gesture misses the mark, failing to address the true source of discontent: the Gen Z population.
The recent protests that have caused embarrassment to Ruto’s government were not driven by ODM members, but by the younger generation. The youth have been vocal about their frustrations with the current leadership, demanding change and accountability. By ignoring their pleas and instead focusing on appeasing the opposition, Ruto is demonstrating a fundamental misunderstanding of the political landscape.
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The omission of any Gen Z representatives in the new list of CSs underscores this disconnect. The young people of Kenya, who make up a significant portion of the population, have unique perspectives and challenges that need to be addressed. They are the future leaders of the country and their voices must be heard in the corridors of power. Failing to include them in decision-making roles is a grave oversight.
This move could backfire on Ruto. By overlooking the genuine grievances of Gen Z and prioritizing political maneuvering, he risks further alienating a crucial segment of the population. The youth have already proven their ability to mobilize and make their voices heard. If their concerns continue to be dismissed, it is only a matter of time before they take to the streets again, potentially leading to even more unrest.
Easy Access to Information
Kenya is a country where the internet connects vast numbers of people and whose adoption of technology is averagely high. This makes it easy for citizens to quickly discern when a leader is playing games with them as information is easily available. Additionally, Kenya’s political landscape has significantly evolved, meaning that traditional tactics of political maneuvering and misinformation are no longer effective. The public is more informed, engaged, and critical of leadership decisions, demanding transparency and accountability at every turn. This shift necessitates that leaders stay attuned to the genuine needs and aspirations of their constituents, rather than merely focusing on political theatrics.
See Also:
1: Kenyan TikToker Compares Mama Rachel Ruto to Jezebel: “Funding Foreign Prophets”
2: Gen Zs Defy William Ruto’s Clear Warning, Turn Out in Numbers During Today’s Protests
If the president truly wants to redeem himself, he must recognize the importance of addressing the pressing issues facing the youth, particularly the Gen Z population. This generation, characterized by their digital fluency and social awareness, is not easily swayed by superficial gestures. They seek substantial and meaningful changes that reflect their aspirations for a better future.
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The recent protests are a testament to their growing impatience with the status quo and their willingness to take a stand against perceived injustices.
To build a more inclusive and responsive government, he needs to engage directly with the youth, incorporating their perspectives into policy-making and demonstrating a real commitment to addressing their issues. Only then can he hope to restore trust and ensure a more stable and prosperous future for the nation.
