Team Ruto-Raila Senate Proposes Measures to Address Gen Z Protests in Kenya

NAIROBI, July 10, 2024 - The Kenyan Senate today presented a series of proposals aimed at addressing the ongoing protests led by Generation Z, hours after President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga called for dialogue.

In a motion titled "The Current State of the Nation," Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot and Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi outlined seven key proposals to resolve the political unrest.

The proposals come in response to concerns raised by Gen Z protesters, including corruption, impunity, government incompetence, lack of meritocracy in public appointments, opulent lifestyles of Kenya Kwanza administration leaders, unemployment, and the high cost of living.

Key proposals include:

1. Expedited consideration of the presidential memorandum rejecting the Finance Bill 2024 by the National Assembly.

2. Prompt implementation of austerity measures across all government entities.

3. Enhanced efforts to combat corruption by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and other relevant agencies.

4. Cessation of abductions, unlawful arrests, and extra-judicial killings by the National Police Service, with emphasis on restraint when dealing with peaceful protesters.

5. Release of individuals arrested for planning and participating in peaceful demonstrations related to the Finance Bill.

6. Government commitment to waive hospital bills for injured protesters and cover funeral expenses for those who lost their lives during demonstrations.

7. Prioritization and expedition of court cases related to the Finance Bill and resultant protests by the Judiciary.

These proposals represent a significant step towards addressing the grievances of Kenya's youth and potentially ending the recent wave of protests. The Senate's acknowledgment of the urgency of these issues signals a potential shift in the government's approach to handling the ongoing political crisis.

As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the implementation of these proposals and their impact on the Gen Z-led protest movement.