Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has appealed to the national government to pardon and release youth arrested during recent nationwide protests, saying the move would pave the way for meaningful national dialogue and healing.
Speaking at the county headquarters, Barasa called on authorities to facilitate the immediate release of detained youth and to provide bail for those already facing charges in court. He also urged county governments to show compassion by waiving hospital bills for those injured during the demonstrations.
“I want to request the national government and security agencies to release the youth in custody. The government should also waive hospital bills for those injured so that they can fully participate in national dialogue,” said Barasa. “It is only through dialogue that we can address the issues affecting our country.”
The governor aligned himself with ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga’s call for a national conclave to engage young people constructively. He emphasized that engaging the youth in open discussions was critical for addressing their grievances and shaping Kenya’s future.
“I support my party leader Raila Odinga’s call for a generational conclave to create room for constructive dialogue with the youth,” Barasa noted.
The nationwide protests, largely led by Gen Z and younger millennials, were sparked by discontent over the now-withdrawn Finance Bill 2024 and a broader dissatisfaction with governance, unemployment, and economic hardships. The protests saw a heavy police crackdown, resulting in injuries, arrests, and fatalities.
Barasa also encouraged young people to express themselves respectfully, cautioning against using the platform to abuse leaders. “It is important that we have this dialogue. As a county government, we are going to continuously engage our youths so that we can address their problems, which include unemployment,” he said.
The governor’s remarks add to growing pressure on the national government to adopt a conciliatory approach towards the protesting youth, many of whom have been hailed for raising important socio-economic issues through peaceful demonstrations.
Barasa’s proposal reflects a broader political shift toward listening to and involving young people in shaping the nation’s future a message that continues to resonate across Kenya.
