‘We Have Made Mistakes’ Mudavadi Admits, Urges Restraint Amid Ongoing Turmoil
Kenya’s political scene has been shaken by significant unrest and protests, primarily led by the youth. On July 18, Musalia Mudavadi, the sole Cabinet Secretary, addressed the ongoing turmoil, acknowledging the government’s faults and calling on the younger generation to exercise restraint to avoid further chaos.
During the launch of the TVET Curriculum Development, Assessment, and Certification Council’s Strategic Plan 2023-27 in Nairobi, Mudavadi urged young Kenyans to approach their demonstrations with a vision for the future.
His comments came amidst ongoing nationwide protests against the Kenya Kwanza government, which began on June 18. The unrest, driven by widespread opposition to unpopular tax increases, has gripped the nation for the past four weeks.
Despite President William Ruto’s attempts to appease the protesters with various measures, the unrest continues. The demonstrations have somewhat subsided since late June when violent incidents led to dozens of deaths and the storming of parliament.
Nonetheless, activists remain resolute in their demand for President Ruto’s resignation, organizing new rallies under the hashtag “RutoMustGo.”
Ruto has suggested the formation of a “broad-based” government, leading to media speculation about a potential national unity government with Raila Odinga, the veteran opposition leader narrowly defeated by Ruto in the 2022 elections. This adds a new layer of complexity to the already tense political situation.
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Mudavadi emphasized the need to protect the country despite the government’s missteps, acknowledging that mistakes are inevitable. He drew comparisons between Ruto’s administration and past regimes, highlighting that previous leaders also made mistakes but managed to hold the country together.
He underscored the importance of national stability, stating that despite current errors, the country must endure for future generations to take over.
Over the past month, protests have expanded from opposing the 2024 Finance Bill to broader issues such as police brutality, corruption, and unfulfilled political promises. The KNCHR reports at least 50 deaths and 413 injuries since the protests began.
Acting police chief Douglas Kanja recently disclosed “credible intelligence” indicating that organized criminal groups aim to infiltrate and destabilize the protests. Kanja urged demonstrators to remain peaceful and vigilant and to cooperate with police for safety and security.
Adding to the controversy, President Ruto accused the Ford Foundation of funding the protests, which the US-based organization vehemently denied, stating they did not sponsor the recent protests against the finance bill.
Mudavadi warned, “If you are in your 18s or 20s and your country is thrown into turmoil, tell me where you will be.”
‘We Have Made Mistakes’ Mudavadi Admits, Urges Restraint Amid Ongoing Turmoil
