Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has called upon the younger generation to actively advocate for their rights and resist complacency. Speaking at the funeral of his cousin, veteran rally driver Kibathi Muigai, Kenyatta emphasized that young Kenyans, commonly referred to as Gen Z, including his daughter Ngina, should not passively allow their hard-earned gains to be undermined.

Kenyatta expressed concern that many citizens have become hesitant to defend their rightful possessions. He urged the youth to unite and proactively engage in the defense of their interests, emphasizing that inaction risks the loss of what they have toiled for. He asserted that they possess the energy to drive positive change and encouraged them to persist in their pursuit of justice.

“The youth are the story of the future,” Kenyatta stated, “and they must fight for their rights. They should not sit idly by while what they have worked for is taken away. They must fight until justice is served because nothing lasts forever.”

His remarks follow a recent courtesy call by President William Ruto to Kenyatta’s Ishaweri home in Gatundu. Kenyatta reiterated the importance of active participation, stating, “If you don’t fight for it, don’t complain when it is taken away.” He pledged full support to the youth, acknowledging their potential to foster a better society.

“There is no need to be afraid,” Kenyatta said. “We elders are the ones who should be afraid, but you have the power to fight this. Some have gone through detention and come out to continue with life.” He added, “We are fully behind you as you continue down this path.”

Kenyatta’s pronouncements come amidst growing public unease over an increase in reported abductions, particularly of government critics. In December of last year, at least six young individuals, including those known for creating viral memes, were reportedly abducted.

The government’s response to these incidents has been criticized for its apparent lack of coordination. President Ruto’s assurance that he would address the abductions was coupled with a call for parents to control their “ill-disciplined” children. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen’s statement that no Kenyan has been abducted or killed by police since President Ruto’s election further contributed to the perception of a disjointed governmental response.

Statements made by Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwah, and even National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohammed, which appeared to justify the abductions, have also raised concerns.

Conversely, a third faction of government officials, including Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi and senior presidential advisor Moses Kuria, have expressed disapproval of the abductions, further highlighting the divided response within the government.