Chance to rebuild trust with the youth

Kenya stands on the brink of a revolution driven by its young people, who have long been marginalised by a political elite that assumes they are not interested in politics and governance issues.

Their ongoing agitation over the 2024 Finance Bill must be taken with the seriousness it deserves so as to ensure the underlying issues that led the country to this point are resolved.

For too long, those in power have ignored the voices of the people during public participation on proposed policies, rendering such initiatives ineffective and a waste of time.

President Ruto’s promise to have a dialogue with the youth is commendable, especially at a time when some church leaders are also urging the political class to listen and prevent further escalation of protests.

As Anglican Church of Kenya Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit rightly pointed out, what Kenya needs now is a listening ear from its leaders, rather than mere rhetoric.

This moment presents an opportunity for the government to rebuild trust with the youth and the broader public. By genuinely listening to and addressing the issues raised, officials can demonstrate that public participation is not a mere formality, but a vital part of the democratic process.

Therefore, the President’s commitment to dialogue must be genuine and not just a  measure to placate the public. The government must engage with the youth meaningfully, addressing their concerns and incorporating their feedback into policy decisions.

Failure to do so risks further alienating them and potentially escalating tensions. The approach to this dialogue will set a precedent for future interactions with the public and will reinforce or undermine the credibility of public participation in governance.

If indeed it comes to pass, the dialogue should be the beginning of a sustained effort to listen to and act on the concerns of all citizens, particularly the youth, who represent the future of Kenya. Genuine engagement is crucial for addressing the root causes of discontent and ensuring a more inclusive and responsive governance framework.

Taking the youth’s agitation seriously and engaging in meaningful dialogue is essential for addressing the root causes of their discontent and ensuring a more inclusive and responsive governance framework.