Wetang’ula, MPs warn youth against engaging in violence on June 25
The speaker warned them against being dragged into political fights and instead urged them to consider the challenges facing them
Amid mounting tension particularly in the capital Nairobi as Gen Z plot to hold demonstrations to commemorate last year’s June 25 protests against the proposed 2024 Finance Bill which led to the death of 60 youths, leaders led by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, have warned the young people against causing Mayhem in the country at a time when it is on the recovery path.
Speaking in Borabu Constituency, Nyamira County, Wetang’ula cautioned that they should not tamper with peace.
“Anyone who dares to tamper with our peace, let it be known we shall defend it with every ounce of energy we have. Because in our country, peace has no alternative,” he cautioned.
The leaders took a swipe at opposition-leaning politicians, who they said were using the young people to fuel animosity within the political space.
The speaker warned the young people against being dragged into political fights and instead urged them to consider the challenges facing them.
“Don’t be drawn into political issues that are not yours,” Wetang’ula said.
“Focus on your own country and your challenges. Don’t hate people you don’t even know. They may have done you no wrong, and yet you carry burdens that are not yours. We must rise above borrowed hatred and remain focused on building our lives,” he pleaded.
His sentiments were shared by various leaders who had accompanied him, who expressed concern that young people were being used to settle political scores.
South Mugirango Member of Parliament and National Assembly majority whip Sylvanus Osoro, who was present, concurred with Wetang’ula, saying the country does not need war.
Osoro added that youths are tired of being used by the political class, as he called on the opposition to respect the constitution.
“The opposition needs to respect the constitution. Whatever they have planned in Nairobi next week shall not proceed. Kenyans do not want wrangles and the youths are tired of being used,” he stated.
Taking a cue from criticism leveled against impeached deputy president Rigathi Gachagua who insinuated that the country will experience yet another dark past in the upcoming general election, the leaders warmed against toying around with the price of war using reckless utterances.
“There is one thing we must never forget the events of 2007, when politics was turned into a dangerous game, even here in Borabu, there was unrest. People fought, lives were lost, and we were forced to sit down at Serena Hotel to negotiate a way forward. We agreed then to bring balance, cohesion, and healing to our nation,” Wetang’ula stated.
