President Ruto breaks silence over Gen-Z protests, gives way forward

President William Ruto on Sunday June 23, 2024 broke his silence on the anti-Finance Bill 2024 Protests that have been witnessed across the country last week.

Speaking during a Sunday Service at the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) in Nyahururu, President Ruto stated that the government had listened to the youth (Gen-Z) and was ready to engage in conversation with them.

Additionally, the President defended the proposed Finance Bill 2024, saying that it aims to enhance youth employment.

“I am very proud of our young people for stepping forward, tribeless and peaceful. I assure them that we are concerned about their issues. In this year’s budget, I have enhanced digital jobs because we acknowledge the challenge of unemployment in the county,” said President Ruto.

President William Ruto with his deputy Rigathi Gachagua during a Sunday Service at ACK Church in Nyahururu on June 23, 2024. The president promised to address issues raised during anti-Finance Bill protests. Photo/TV47.

The president added that Gen-Z have done their democratic duty, to stand and be recognized.

“I’m proud of them. We’ll have a conversation with you to identify your issues and work together as a nation,” he assured the Kenyan youth.

The Head of State also urged the clergy to continue praying for him, his deputy Rigathi Gachagua and the entire country.

Meanwhile, Ruto explained that the government had allocated Ksh10 billion to the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in the 2024/2025 financial year budget which would be used for allocating bursary for students, as well as other development activities at the constituency level.

Apart from that, he highlighted that the government would allocate more resources for bursaries and loans through the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB).

At the same time, Kapseret member of parliament who was also present during the church service said he was impressed by Kenyan youth for raising their concerns.

“I laud the determination and zeal demonstrated by the youthful Gen-Z. Going forward, the current leadership must incorporate their concerns in making major decisions.

“This is truly an awakening moment for our youth in their journey to self realization,” said Oscar Sudi.

The remarks emerged at a time when organizers of occupy parliament protests are emphasizing on pushing the MPs to reject the proposed Finance Bill.