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Oscar Sudi & 4 UDA Leaders Who Have Supported Gen Z Protests (LIST)
For the first time since protests began across the nation last week, President William Ruto commended young Kenyans, predominantly Gen Zs, for engaging in a democratic process.
Speaking at a church service in Nyahururu on Sunday, the President invited the protesters for a discussion focused on the Finance Bill.
“I want to congratulate our young people for showing concern about Kenya’s affairs. They have fulfilled a democratic duty by standing up and being noticed. We will engage with the youth in a conversation. They have stood out and have been acknowledged,” Ruto stated.
“I am very proud of our young people. They have come forward, free from tribalism and peaceful.”
Before the President remarked on the protests, several leaders from the ruling party praised the young protesters for seeking inclusion in the country’s democratic process.
Kimani Ichung’wah
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, addressing a congregation on Sunday, praised Gen Z and millennials for their forward-thinking protest.
He observed that the recent protests had surpassed the ethnic and tribal divisions that have long plagued the country.
“The rise of Gen Z in advocacy and governance represents a significant shift toward unity and inclusivity, breaking down ethnic and tribal barriers. This new generation embodies a progressive approach, prioritizing shared goals and values over divisive identities,” Ichung’wah stated.
“It is disheartening to see some national leaders holding on to outdated notions of tribalism and ethnic division. Our Gen Z illustrates a more progressive vision for our nation, setting an example for all leaders.”
Oscar Sudi
Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi expressed admiration for the young generation’s determination.
He explained that he had discussed with President William Ruto the importance of addressing their concerns and including them in the Finance Bill and budget processes.
“I commend the determination and enthusiasm shown by Gen Z. Moving forward, the current leadership must consider their concerns in major decisions. This is an awakening moment for our youth in their journey to self-realization,” he stated.
“I commend the determination shown by Gen Z. Moving forward, the leadership must incorporate their concerns in major decisions. We must listen to them. I spoke to Ruto and we agreed to include Gen Z in the planning of next year’s Finance Bill.”
Gathoni Wamuchomba
Gathunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, elected on a UDA ticket, created a stir by rejecting the Finance Bill during Thursday’s voting.
Later, she supported the protests, highlighting that parents should be proud of their children who are advocating for change instead of indulging in drugs.
“Upper-class parents should be grateful that their children are on the streets, not drunk and disorderly, but sober and focused on our collective issues,” she stated.
George Koimburi
Juja MP George Koimburi, also a UDA member, vowed to vote against the Finance Bill 2024 in its upcoming readings.
Addressing a congregation with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Friday, Koimburi noted that the administration had campaigned on a manifesto promising affordable housing, which had yet to commence in his county.
“Your Excellency (Rigathi Gachagua), we love you dearly, and as Juja MP with the support of my constituents, I assert that overburdening Kenyans with taxes has gone too far. Next week, as we proceed to the committee of the whole, I will maintain my stance against extensive taxation. Kenyans have suffered enough,” he stated.
David Ndii
David Ndii, President William Ruto’s chief economic advisor, announced on Sunday his full support for the Gen Z protests.
Ndii had earlier criticized the demonstrations, stating they were led by children of the wealthy whose parents had previously plundered the country.
“We are with them 100 percent. They reject the politics of kingpins and tribalism. We fully support them,” he stated.
“They refuse to be used by demagogues and sore losers with personal agendas. We fully support them,” he added, noting that the Gen Z protesters had substantial backing from reformists within Ruto’s administration.
Oscar Sudi & 4 UDA Leaders Who Have Supported Gen Z Protests (LIST)