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Senior Counsel Paul Muite has publicly defended Kenya’s youth protesters, asserting that they are too well-educated to be manipulated into violence during demonstrations.

In a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, the veteran lawyer emphasized that young protesters, often referred to as Gen Zs, are capable of making independent decisions.

Muite argued that the demonstrations stem from legitimate concerns regarding governance and economic issues, countering claims that Gen Zs are coerced into participating in protests.

“Gen-Zs are educated, able to make decisions, and beyond incitement to violence by anyone,” Muite said, challenging narratives that have portrayed young protesters as easily manipulated.

According to Muite, the youth’s peaceful demonstrations are focused on four key demands: accountability in public spending, job creation, an end to forced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, and respect for constitutional order.

The former Kikuyu Member of Parliament (MP) highlighted concerns about how tax revenue and loans are utilized, stating that Gen Zs are demanding accountability in the use of these funds.

“Their peaceful demonstrations ask for; accountability, taxes, and loans to be spent on Kenyans, not stolen; jobs here in Kenya; stop abductions and extrajudicial executions and r’Gen Zs are educated and beyond incitement to violence’ – Lawyer Paul Muiteespect the constitution,” Muite said.

The Gen Z movement

The government has faced rising tensions with the youth since they opposed the Finance Bill of 2024.

The group organized a series of protests that significantly pressured President William Ruto, ultimately leading him to abandon the contentious finance bill and dismiss his cabinet.

Speaking to the Kenyan youth, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, on Friday, January 17, 2025, urged them to continue fighting for their rights.

In his address during the burial of his cousin, Kibathi Muigai, in Ichaweri, Gatundu South, Uhuru rallied the Gen Z to stand firm in their pursuit of justice.

“You Gen Z are the future. Fight for your rights, my friends.

Don’t just sit there and let what you’ve worked hard for be taken from you. Don’t allow it. Stand up and ensure you get what is rightfully yours. Are you listening? Don’t just sit there doing nothing,” Uhuru said.