Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has revealed that he prefers to stay silent these days, as speaking out often puts him at odds with the current government.

Speaking during the wedding reception of James Kimoi, the son of KANU Chairman Gideon Moi, on Friday, May 2, 2025, the former head of state humorously admitted he is holding back from engaging in political talk despite having strong opinions.

“These days, I don’t have much to say. Nobody wants to listen to a politician who, every time he opens his mouth, seems to get himself in trouble with the powers that be, so I’d rather keep my mouth shut,” Uhuru shared.

Uhuru, who has been calling the youth to take up space and challenge those in power, suggested that the government grows uncomfortable whenever young people voice concerns or demand accountability.

In a reflective tone, he said political instincts still run through him, but he’s chosen to step back.

“You know, I tell people that I had a biological father who was a politician who put political genes in my system, and they are still there, but now they are lying low,” he added.

He also added that he learned a lot from retired President Daniel Moi, whom he referred to as his political mentor, who he said was never intimidated by young people who challenged his administration.

“But I also had a political father (Moi), and you know he wasn’t scared of young people like some people around here today. When young people talk, they panic,” Uhuru pointed out.

Uhuru encouraged the youth not to be intimidated by current power structures and reminded them that they hold the key to the country’s future.

“You guys are the future, don’t be cowed, start now. Who knows what God has in store for you? We are there to support you,” he declared.

Youth support

This message echoed what he had said weeks ago, where he called on African youth to take charge of shaping the continent’s future, emphasising that they are the last line of defence in safeguarding its destiny.

Speaking at the Guild Leaders Summit 2025 held at Makerere University on Thursday, April 24, 2025, Uhuru urged African nations to chart their course, warning that the international community is increasingly turning inward and prioritising domestic interests.

“You are the last line of defence in the battle to rescue the heart and soul of Africa for the sake of the future generations,” Uhuru said.

“No one is coming to save us, and as the world turns increasingly inward, the places to seek refuge are rapidly disappearing.”

Addressing policymakers, student leaders, and academic stakeholders from across East Africa, he emphasised the need for integrity-driven leadership and self-reliance to tackle the continent’s pressing issues.

He pointed out Africa’s demographic strength, over 65% of the population is under the age of 25, as a critical asset in overcoming historical challenges such as division and corruption.

“You have the numbers, you have the time, and you have the energy to get involved and stay involved in governance discussions until you effect the changes you wish to see,” he noted.

Uhuru also urged young leaders to support policies that serve the long-term interests of their countries rather than those crafted for short-term personal gain.

Criticism

But not everyone welcomed his message. Some Kenya Kwanza leaders criticised him, accusing him of hypocrisy.

Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa was especially vocal, reminding Kenyans that Uhuru had not always championed the youth while in office.

“Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, during his 10 years in office, appointed Mzee Moody Awori, then aged 91, as the chairman of the Sports Fund,” Barasa said at a church fundraiser in Malava.

“When questioned, he said young people are thieves, and he preferred appointing an elder. Today, he says he loves the youth, but that is hypocrisy. Unless he changes his ways, even Jesus will not return!”