The University of Nairobi Student Association (UoNSA), under the leadership of its President Rocha Madzao, has issued an urgent call for dialogue with the President William Ruto. This call aims to address critical national issues, following a series of events that have deeply impacted the youth and the broader community.
During a press briefing, President Madzao demanded accountability for the lives lost and injuries inflicted on peaceful demonstrators. He emphasized that the perpetrators must be brought to justice. Madzao specifically called for the resignation of the Inspector General of Police, accusing the official of failing to protect innocent lives. In a show of solidarity, he urged all students to donate blood to help save the lives of their injured comrades.
Ramesh Saxena, a prominent member of the UoNSA, condemned the Members of Parliament who voted to pass the controversial finance bill. He criticized their apparent indifference during the President’s address, noting that their smiles and laughter were inappropriate given the serious issues at hand. Saxena called for these MPs to issue public apologies to their constituents.
The association outlined several urgent issues requiring the President’s immediate attention. Saxena highlighted rampant corruption and excessive executive expenditure as major obstacles to national development. He called for a thorough audit of the Public Service Commission’s hiring processes, alleging widespread nepotism and corruption that leave qualified graduates jobless and hopeless.
Michael Soy, the UoNSA Head of Public Service, emphasized the need for strong anti-corruption measures, including well-funded and independent institutions, mandatory public disclosure of government contracts, and swift prosecution of corrupt individuals. He also proposed budget cuts and cost-efficiency measures within the executive branch, recommending a review of the executive budget, reducing non-essential expenditures, and enhancing accountability.
In the health sector, the association advocated for investments in healthcare infrastructure, essential medicines, and the training and remuneration of healthcare professionals. They also suggested public-private partnerships to supplement government efforts in these areas.
Moreover the association demanded performance reviews for government officials, merit-based appointments, and the immediate removal of incompetent leaders. They also proposed leveraging technology to enhance public participation, especially among the youth. This would involve implementing digital platforms, virtual town halls, and educational initiatives to ensure youth engagement in decision-making processes
Addressing Kenya’s debt crisis, the UoNSA called on the Ministry of Finance and Treasury to explore the primary factors contributing to the escalating debt levels. They demanded the publication of public debts, detailing their acquisition, usage, and repayment schedules. Soy urged the administration to demonstrate a commitment to the welfare of all citizens by taking decisive action on these issues.
The UoNSA requested an urgent conversation with the President, either online or in person, to discuss these pressing issues and find a way forward. Rocha Madzao also raised concerns about the recent unrest, questioning who was responsible for burning the Parliament. He asserted that no Gen Z protesters were seen carrying petrol, suggesting that external actors might be exploiting the demonstrations for their own interests.
Madzao underscored the need to identify and expose these individuals, ensuring that the true voices of the youth are heard and respected in the national discourse