In a significant media briefing held on the status of the nation, prominent Muslim leaders from various organizations including the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM), the National Muslim Leaders Forum (NAMLEF), Jamia Mosque, the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK), and several student organizations, called for immediate action to address the escalating national crisis.
The briefing was led by Hassan Ole Naado, National Chairman of SUPKEM, who highlighted the critical role of Kenya’s youth in advocating for better governance and economic policies.
The leaders underscored the efforts of Generation Z and Millennials in mobilizing peaceful protests against the Finance Bill 2024. Citing Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, demonstration, and petition, Ole Naado praised the youth for embodying the spirit and pulse of the nation.
The protests, which saw widespread participation, were a response to the overwhelming public disapproval of the Finance Bill, with 90 percent of citizens rejecting the bill during public consultations.
Despite the legitimate concerns raised by the youth, the government proceeded with the Finance Bill, leading to widespread discontent. Muslim leaders condemned the decision of the Members of Parliament who voted for the bill, ignoring the voices of the majority. The ensuing protests have led to tragic consequences, including deaths, property destruction, and attacks on state institutions.
“The state ignored the pleas of Kenyans and the petition of our youth, leading to an unfolding crisis that threatens to push our country into chaos. Although President withdrew the Finance Bill, the unrest continues, reflecting deeper issues beyond the bill itself” said Ole Naado
The leaders called on President to demonstrate leadership and patriotism in addressing the crisis. They emphasized the need for innovative approaches to contemporary challenges and criticized the overzealous response of the police towards peaceful demonstrators. Ole Naado urged the President to rein in rogue police officers, release detained protesters, and support the families of those affected by the violence.
“This uprising is an opportunity to address the deep-seated issues of political corruption, state capture, and resource plunder that our youth are protesting against,” SUPKEM Chairman stated
The leaders called for actions that align with the promises made to the common man and respect the essence of public participation in policy-making.
In a message to Generation Z, the leaders expressed solidarity and support, acknowledging the legitimate frustrations and aspirations of the youth. They commended the decision to cancel planned protests on July 4th to prevent further violence and urged the youth to rethink their strategies while staying committed to their cause.
“Our prayers are with you, and we stand in solidarity with you in this struggle”. He reassured the youth that Muslim leaders and the community would continue to offer spaces for peaceful assembly and support their legitimate demands.
The leaders reiterated their commitment to providing counsel and assistance and called on the President to take decisive actions to address the youth’s concerns and restore order.
As Kenya stands at a critical crossroads, the call for innovative leadership and respect for constitutional rights remains paramount in navigating the nation through these turbulent times.