Kenyan youth leaders have challenged President William Ruto to bring forward his proposed political retirement plan, arguing that generational change should begin before the 2027 General Election. They urged him to include Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula among leaders expected to leave active politics.
The remarks were made during the Bonga Nasi dialogue forum organised by the Youth Agenda organisation on Wednesday. The forum brought together young people to discuss leadership and representation.
The youths were responding to Ruto’s comments that he intends to retire from politics in 2032, after completing his two-term limit. They said the President should not determine when young people are ready to take over, insisting that the transition should start in 2027.
Noah Adipo argued that if Ruto was serious about making room for a new generation, he should encourage older political figures, including Mudavadi and Wetang’ula, to step aside before the next election. Ken Babu, an aspiring Nairobi senator, described the President’s message as positive in principle but said it was coming from the wrong person and too late.
Other participants questioned whether younger leaders associated with the government had demonstrated the integrity needed to lead. They accused some of benefiting from public resources, raising concerns about corruption, public debt and the country’s economic direction.
The debate also touched on government programmes targeting young people. Participants argued that initiatives such as the NYOTA fund would not be enough unless young people were given opportunities to influence decisions and access leadership.
The government says the NYOTA programme is benefiting thousands of young people, while support and internship opportunities are planned.
The forum highlighted pressure from Kenya’s youth for a political transition based on accountability, performance and fair representation, rather than waiting for another generation to be handed power.
Source: https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/politics/article/2001562103/include-mudavadi-and-wetangula-in-your-retirement-list-youths-tell-ruto
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