CS Ruku Blames Opposition for Chaos, Urges Youth to Reject Violence and Embrace Skills Programs
Mbeere North – Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has condemned the recent wave of destruction linked to Gen Z protests, accusing the opposition of fueling chaos for political gain. Ruku addressed the matter during a public forum in Mbeere North, Embu County, where he called out what he described as “calculated disruption” masked as peaceful protest.
Speaking directly to community members, Ruku pointed to unnamed opposition leaders and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as key figures behind the unrest.
“This was not protest; it was organized destruction,” Ruku said. “The people of Kenya will not allow individuals with selfish interests to destroy the peace and stability we have worked hard to build.”
He warned that efforts to divide the country would fail and said leadership should be earned through vision, not incitement. “You cannot attain leadership by dividing the nation. It is of no benefit to seek power through polarization and the balkanization of the country,” he added.
The protests, which erupted in response to the 2024 Finance Bill, turned violent in major cities. Property was damaged and dozens were reported dead, mostly youth. Ruku described the events as “planned acts of political sabotage” and rejected claims that the protests were entirely peaceful.
He urged young Kenyans to avoid being drawn into what he called power-hungry schemes. “I have a young son, and I understand what the youth need. That’s why I’m calling upon our young people to reason together with us as parents in tackling the challenges facing our nation,” he said.
Ruku also used the forum to highlight the government’s youth empowerment agenda. He said the Ministry of Public Service, working with other departments, is expanding the National Internship Programme. The goal is to help youth build practical skills and secure employment.
“We are committed to ensuring that the youth of this country are not left behind,” he said. “The internship program will be strengthened to provide hands-on experience and open up employment pathways.”
He praised Mbeere residents for their calm and active participation in development discussions, adding that his ministry will continue encouraging similar forums across the country.
Ruku called for a shift away from what he labeled “politics of deceit” and emphasized the importance of community-level support for government-led youth initiatives.
“The politics of manipulation must come to an end,” he said. “We must build a united country that puts youth potential at the center of development.”
The Cabinet Secretary closed his address by reaffirming the government’s commitment to grassroots reforms aimed at promoting inclusion and measurable social impact.
