Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku, has strongly condemned the recent Gen Z-led protests, accusing opposition leaders and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of inciting unrest under the guise of peaceful demonstrations.
Speaking during a public participation forum in Mbeere North, Embu County, CS Ruku described the demonstrations as “planned terrorism, havoc, and a trail of destruction,” claiming they were politically motivated attempts to destabilize the nation.
“The people of Kenya will not allow individuals with selfish interests to destroy the peace and stability we have worked hard to build,” Ruku said, calling for national unity over political division. He urged opposition leaders to present tangible development plans rather than engaging in rhetoric that fuels discord.
Addressing the youth, Ruku warned them against being misled by what he termed as “selfish political actors” seeking power through non-democratic means. “I have a young son, and I understand what the youth need. That’s why I’m calling upon our young people to reason together with us as parents in tackling the challenges facing our nation,” he said.
He praised the residents of Mbeere for their constructive involvement in development forums and pledged that similar engagements would be conducted across all counties to strengthen grassroots participation in national development.
On the issue of youth unemployment, the Cabinet Secretary highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to empower young people through expanded skills development and employment opportunities. He announced plans to strengthen the National Internship Programme in collaboration with other government agencies.
“We are committed to ensuring that the youth of this country are not left behind,” he affirmed, adding that the program would offer hands-on experience and open employment pathways for the youth.
CS Ruku emphasized the government’s recognition of young people as critical drivers of national progress. He urged communities to support youth-centered initiatives and reaffirmed his ministry’s dedication to reforms that prioritize inclusion, innovation, and grassroots impact.
