Advocate Ndegwa Njiru has criticised President William Ruto’s call for Kenyan youth to reject pessimism, describing the message as deeply ironic given prevailing economic hardships.

In an X post dated January 22, 2026, Njiru said, “President Ruto telling Kenyan youth not to be consumed by pessimism is the mother of all irony. After all, hope cannot be commanded from a podium; it must be earned through delivery. And when leadership fails to deliver, pessimism is not a mindset problem – it becomes a leadership outcome.”

He added, “As taxes soar, jobs vanish, and campaign promises collapse under the weight of reality, disbelief is no longer cynical; it is rational. In that context, calling Kenyan youth pessimistic is simply easier than accounting for failure.”

Njiru’s remarks highlight concerns about youth unemployment and economic pressures, with studies indicating that youth aged 15–34 face joblessness rates around 67%, significantly higher than national averages.

Ruto urges optimism

Speaking on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, during the President’s Award–Kenya Gold Award Presentation Ceremony at State House, Nairobi, Ruto addressed 1,252 young awardees who demonstrated resilience, commitment, and leadership to qualify for the Gold prize.

The event, themed “Shaping Young People’s Character and Encouraging Purposeful Interaction”, was attended by Muhoho Kenyatta, Trustee of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation and Chair of its Africa Region.

“These stories remind us that leadership is not defined by titles alone but by service; that success is measured by the change we create; and that, with guidance and opportunity, young Kenyans can rise from any background to shape their future, their communities, and their organisations,” Ruto said.

He further highlighted government investments in education and youth empowerment, noting that more than 23,000 classrooms have been built nationwide, and research efforts are being scaled up to better equip learners.

Ruto concluded by urging youth to adopt hope and purpose over despair. “I want to urge every young person here to believe in our country. Do not allow yourselves to be consumed by pessimism,” he said, commending the awardees for their sustained commitment.

“We are proud of the 1,252 awardees who have demonstrated sustained resilience, commitment, and leadership, qualifying for the Gold prize. Hongera!”