National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has dismissed reports suggesting that he took a swipe at former President Uhuru Kenyatta over his silence amid the ongoing Gen Z-led protests and public discontent.
This follows the circulation of a quote card on social media alleging that Wetang’ula had criticised the former Head of State for failing to speak out on the current political and economic climate in the country.
The viral message claimed that Wetang’ula had questioned why Uhuru, being the only surviving former president, had not taken up the role of a statesman to offer guidance during turbulent times.
Wetang’ula, however, refuted having made such remarks, terming the statement as false and misleading. He urged the public to treat the message as propaganda aimed at sowing political division.
Political analysts and observers have in the past few weeks questioned why the Kenyatta family has been silent on the political discourse in the country, only emerging at measured intervals to send cryptic messages to the nation, particularly the youth.
On January 19, the former President called on Gen Z to continue fighting for their rights, barely two months after a symbolic ‘handshake’ with President William Ruto.
While speaking during the burial of his cousin, veteran rally driver Kibathi Muigai, Uhuru did not hide his thoughts over the rising influence of Kenyan youth on political discourse.
Uhuru, who has shied away from speaking on politics since he left office in 2022, asked the youth to continue fighting for their rights.
“The problem of people nowadays is people are afraid. Gen Zs are the story of the future. Fight for your rights. Fight to ensure you are getting what is rightfully yours,” he urged.
He went on to add, “Don't stand and watch as your wealth is taken from you. Everything is worth fighting for. If you do not fight for it, don't cry if it is taken away.”
Two days later, while speaking at an interdenominational prayer service at Cheptais High School in Bungoma County, President William Ruto indirectly dismissed Uhuru's calls to the youth, describing them as 'inciteful'.
''Our young people deserve the best from us. Let us not pit our children against each other. These young Kenyans do not need violence or confrontation,'' Ruto stated.
The Head of State further stated that leaders should rise to the challenge of encouraging young people to engage in meaningful economic activities instead of incitement.
