Charlene Ruto, daughter of President William Ruto, has called for an end to the growing tensions between millennials and Gen Z in Kenya, urging both groups to embrace unity and intergenerational dialogue. In a heartfelt statement posted on her X account, Charlene emphasized the need for a “generational cease-fire” to promote peace, healing, and constructive engagement among young people.
“It’s time we embrace a generational cease-fire immediately,” she said. “Let’s adopt more civil and objective alternatives like intergenerational dialogue, sound policy recommendations, and active lobbying for sensible reforms.”
Acknowledging the role of millennials in the current generational divide, Charlene admitted that older youth had failed to offer guidance and leadership during tough times. “We as the older brothers and sisters who understand both generations have failed to mediate for peaceful coexistence,” she said, noting that this failure had left many Gen Z youth without proper direction.
Charlene warned that the country risks deepening its divisions if anger, violence, and cancel culture continue unchecked. “Violence, revenge, ‘rage hunting,’ cancel culture, hooliganism, cyberbullying, and riots will only erode our national character, radicalise our youth, and breed dangerous instability,” she cautioned.
A consistent advocate for peace and youth empowerment, Charlene recently visited young people injured during recent anti-government protests, describing it as an emotional experience. “It was an emotional day visiting some young people and members of the public who found themselves as unfortunate victims of the chaos,” she said.
On July 11, she stressed the need for reflection and national healing. “I believe it’s time to reflect and heal as a nation as we search our deepest postures of patriotism, forgiveness, and integration as one people.”
Charlene also encouraged young Kenyans to use their voices constructively, particularly during the President’s X platform engagements. On July 5, she described it as a “chance of a lifetime” for youth to articulate their issues respectfully and shape Kenya’s future through dialogue.
Her message comes at a critical time as the country grapples with youth-led demonstrations and growing political unrest.
