Let’s Sit Down and Talk, Ruto Tells Gen Z Ahead of Tuesday Mega Demonstrations

Kenya’s President William Samoei Ruto late Sunday night conceded to hold talks with youthful protesters who identify themselves as Gen Z.

President Dr William Samoei Ruto during a past function. Photo | State House Nairobi

President Ruto through the State House spokesman said he was ready for “a conversation” with the thousands of young protesters.

The president indicated that he is fully aware of the concerns of the demonstrators especially on matters touching on tax increments.

Without doubt the protests caught Dr. Ruto’s Government off-guard as even the police have been unable to quel the youthful, polite and unarmed protestors.

The protests have been coordinated on social media and streamed alive.

“Our young people have stepped forward to engage on the affairs of their country. They’ve done their democratic duty, to stand and be recognised. I’m proud of them,” Ruto said in quotes shared by presidency spokesman Hussein Mohamed on X, formerly Twitter.

“We’ll have a conversation with you to identify your issues and work together as a nation,” he added, making his first public comments on the protests.

There was no immediate response from the protesters, who have called for a national strike on June 25.

Since the protests began, two people died on Thursday and dozens of others were injured in as demonstrations rocked the capital Nairobi.