Gen Zs Call for National Dialogue With Ruto Govt
The Association of County Students Associations Presidents – Kenya (ACSAPK), a body representing student leaders from all 47 counties, is calling on President William Ruto to initiate a national dialogue with the youth to address their growing concerns.
In an official statement, the student leaders emphasized the need for open discussions aimed at bridging the growing gap between the government and young people. They believe that a structured dialogue could help find lasting solutions and reduce the risk of future youth-led protests, which they say have turned violent and caused unnecessary loss of lives.
The association proposed forming a multi-agency task force to explore practical solutions to pressing challenges like youth unemployment and lack of opportunities, especially affecting Gen Z.
Derrick Odinga, the Secretary of ACSAPK, stated, “The recent protests across the country show how frustrated young people are with high unemployment, limited access to education, the rising cost of living, and poor governance. While these protests have made youth voices heard, they have also led to division and violence.”
Another student leader added, “Young people are the backbone of this country. Their voices matter. We urge President Ruto to support the creation of a National Youth Dialogue Taskforce and to appoint a coordinator to work directly with ACSAPK.”
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This appeal comes at a time when many Gen Zs have rejected government talks, claiming they have no leaders and no political affiliations. They fear that engaging with officials could weaken their grassroots movement.
Last year, Gen Zs played a leading role in protesting the controversial Finance Bill, positioning themselves as a powerful force holding the government to account—some even dubbed them the ‘unofficial opposition’.
However, ACSAPK dismissed the idea that Gen Zs are leaderless. Instead, they condemned political figures trying to exploit the youth movement for personal gain and reiterated the need for sincere dialogue.
The statement also comes ahead of the much-anticipated Saba Saba protests, reportedly being organized by Gen Zs. During the burial of Albert Ojwang in Homa Bay—a youth who died in police custody—attendees vowed to hold peaceful protests on Monday, July 7, in his memory.
Meanwhile, Charlene Ruto, daughter of the President, recently criticized the methods used by young people to express their frustrations, including protests and online “hate raids” against public figures. She argued that such actions promote division rather than progress.
“No country can grow by fueling division—whether generational, tribal, or racial,” Charlene said, urging the youth to embrace peaceful and constructive approaches to change.
Gen Zs Call for National Dialogue With Ruto Govt
