Speaking during his development tour of the Gusii region on Tuesday, November 10, Ruto said politicians of his generation would eventually leave the political stage and allow younger leaders to take charge.
The President also challenged former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to stop targeting emerging politicians allied to his administration. He cited leaders including South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro, Nyaribari Chache MP Zaheer Jhanda and Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah as examples of young politicians who needed space to grow.
Ruto further argued that opposition leaders had occupied influential government positions for years without delivering the changes they were now promising Kenyans. He urged young voters to support his administration, saying it needed more time to implement its development programmes before the anticipated generational transition.
The President's remarks come against the backdrop of strained relations between his government and sections of the youth population following the 2024 protests. Young demonstrators raised concerns about taxation, corruption, unemployment and accountability, placing pressure on the administration to address their demands.
During the Kisii engagement, Ruto also highlighted government initiatives targeting young people, including the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement programme. He said the administration was expanding opportunities in business, employment and skills development as part of its youth agenda.
However, his comments attracted a response from Gachagua, who questioned the President's record on protecting young Kenyans. In a statement posted on X on November 10, the former deputy president raised concerns about deaths, arrests and alleged abductions linked to anti-government demonstrations.
Ruto's appeal therefore comes as both government and opposition leaders seek to engage younger voters ahead of the 2027 elections. His proposed 2032 transition has also introduced another issue into the country's debate about generational leadership.
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