The National Council of Elders has thrown its weight behind the ongoing Gen Z-led protests across the country, criticizing the government for failing to address the pressing needs of its citizens.
Speaking during a press conference held on Wednesday, the council’s chairman, Kungu Muigai, urged the government to undertake a forensic audit to address the nation’s debt crisis and bring clarity to its financial management.
Muigai highlighted that when the Kenya Kwanza administration assumed office, they claimed to have found the national treasury empty. “We demand a thorough audit of government expenditure and revenue over the last 15 years,” he stated, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
The issue of youth unemployment also took center stage during the press conference. Muigai pointed out that the freezing of public sector employment, as announced by Treasury Cabinet Secretary Prof. Njuguna Ndung’u during the budget reading for the upcoming fiscal year, has exacerbated the situation. “Corruption in this country is the root cause of unemployment. The youth are on the streets because they lack jobs. Many of them have acquired more than one degree, yet they still lack employment,” he added.
Despite the pointed criticism, the council expressed its support for President William Ruto’s call for dialogue to ease political tensions. “We acknowledge the leadership of President William Ruto and we are ready to support him in any way to steer the country,” Muigai affirmed.
The council’s backing of the Gen Z protests and their call for a forensic audit comes at a critical juncture, highlighting the growing frustration among citizens over issues of governance, corruption, and economic hardship.
As the protests continue, the council’s stance underscores the urgent need for governmental reforms and greater transparency in addressing the nation’s challenges