ODM party leader Raila Odinga has called on young Kenyans, popularly known as Gen Zs, to avoid chanting “Ruto Must Go” in protests, insisting that President William Ruto’s resignation alone will not solve the country’s challenges.
Speaking at a public forum in Nairobi on Saturday, Raila emphasized the need for a national dialogue to address Kenya’s deep-rooted economic and governance issues.
“We know our Constitution has some gaps that must be addressed. That is why I told Kenyans that now is the right time for us to hold a national conversation,” Raila stated.
“We know our Constitution has some gaps that must be addressed. That is why I told Kenyans that now is the right time for us to hold a national conversation,” Raila stated.
He explained that while frustration among the youth is understandable, especially given the rising cost of living and high unemployment rates, simplistic slogans and street chants will not offer a permanent solution.
“Protests and chants of ‘Ruto Must Go’ will not solve the problems. Even if Ruto leaves office today, it will not solve our challenges,” Raila warned.
Instead, he urged the youth to focus on long-term solutions that include strengthening democratic institutions, pushing for economic reforms, and demanding accountability from all leaders.
“Protests and chants of ‘Ruto Must Go’ will not solve the problems. Even if Ruto leaves office today, it will not solve our challenges,” Raila warned.
Instead, he urged the youth to focus on long-term solutions that include strengthening democratic institutions, pushing for economic reforms, and demanding accountability from all leaders.
According to Raila, these measures are more effective in achieving lasting change than focusing on removing one individual from power.
Raila also highlighted the importance of involving the youth in policy-making processes. He argued that young people have the energy and ideas needed to drive change but must be careful not to be used by opportunistic politicians who exploit their anger for personal gain.
His remarks come at a time when nationwide demonstrations, mainly led by young people, have intensified.
Raila also highlighted the importance of involving the youth in policy-making processes. He argued that young people have the energy and ideas needed to drive change but must be careful not to be used by opportunistic politicians who exploit their anger for personal gain.
His remarks come at a time when nationwide demonstrations, mainly led by young people, have intensified.
The protests have largely centered on frustrations over the Finance Bill, high taxation, and allegations of government corruption. Many demonstrators have turned to social media to rally support, making slogans like “Ruto Must Go” go viral.
Raila’s call for calm and constructive engagement is seen by many as a strategic move to unite the country and encourage dialogue over confrontation.
Raila’s call for calm and constructive engagement is seen by many as a strategic move to unite the country and encourage dialogue over confrontation.
He insisted that while peaceful protests are a constitutional right, they must be combined with informed discussions to bring about genuine change.
“The youth are the heartbeat of this nation. Let us work together to find solutions that will benefit generations to come,” Raila concluded.
“The youth are the heartbeat of this nation. Let us work together to find solutions that will benefit generations to come,” Raila concluded.

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