Dozens of youths rally for national unity in Nairobi streets
Awino says their movement is rooted in the call for social and economic justice, which they believe is lacking in the current political environment
Dozens of youths on Wednesday held a peaceful march and prayer rally calling for unity and healing in the country.
The march, which began with prayers at Uhuru Park, ended in the Nairobi Central Business District.
It was held after the youths had visited victims of the June and July protests are still recovering at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).
They emphasised the need for peace and solidarity among Kenyans, stating that the nation must not be divided by political interests.
Addressing the media outside KNH, one of the the “One Tribe One Nation” march organisers, Francis Awino, said it was meant to send a strong message to political leaders who continue to pretend that everything in the country is fine, despite growing social and political tensions.
“Politicians are crisscrossing the country pretending all is well—but it’s not. Our goal is simple: to unite Kenyans. We are not stopping anytime soon. We believe Kenya deserves better leadership,” said Awino.
He added that their movement is rooted in the call for social and economic justice, which they believe is lacking in the current political environment.
“Politicians are moving across the country pretending everything is when it is not. We have one cause, to unite Kenyans and we are not backsliding any soon. Our dream is to ensure Kenya is okay and has better leadership,” Awino stated.
“Our fight is for social economic justice and we are focused. Nothing will stop us from this. Kenya is for all of us,” he added.
The youthful leaders also accused the government of ignoring the plight of the youth, noting that several young people remain hospitalised after sustaining injuries during protests held in memory of those who died in last year’s anti-government demonstrations.
They criticised the State for what they described as a campaign of intimidation and witch-hunts against young protesters, vowing to keep pushing for change and accountability.
“We will not be silenced. The youth are the future of this country,” said another participant at the rally.
