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The National Elders Council has voiced its support for the ongoing protests led by Gen Z across the country, criticizing the government for failing to address the needs of its citizens. During a press conference in Nairobi on Wednesday, Chairman Kungu Muigai called for a forensic audit to address the nation’s debt crisis and scrutinize government expenditure and revenue over the past 15 years.
“When the Kenya Kwanza government assumed office, they claimed there were empty coffers and no money. We demand a thorough audit of government expenditure and revenue over the last 15 years,” Muigai stated.
Muigai also highlighted the pressing issue of youth unemployment, exacerbated by the recent announcement from Treasury Cabinet Secretary Prof. Njuguna Ndung’u regarding the freezing of public sector employment for the upcoming fiscal year.
“Corruption in this country is the root cause of unemployment. The youth are on the streets because they lack jobs. Many of them have acquired more than one degree, yet they still lack employment,” Muigai added, emphasizing the frustration and disillusionment among the nation’s youth.
Despite their criticisms, the council of elders expressed their support for President William Ruto’s call for dialogue to ease the political tension.
“We acknowledge the leadership of President William Ruto and we are ready to support him in any way to steer the country,” Muigai said.
The National Elders Council’s support for the Gen Z-led protests adds a significant voice to the ongoing demonstrations, which have seen over forty people killed and extensive property damage across the country. The protests were initially triggered by opposition to the Finance Bill 2024, which was later rejected and withdrawn by President Ruto.
As the political and social landscape remains volatile, the call for dialogue and accountability is seen as a crucial step towards addressing the root causes of unrest and paving the way for sustainable solutions to the country’s challenges.
