CS Ruku Tells Gen Z Speak Through Dialogue, Not Destruction, Ahead of Protests
NAIROBI – Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has urged Kenya’s youth to voice their frustrations peacefully as the country braces for Gen Z-led demonstrations set for Wednesday, June 26.
Speaking during an interdenominational service at Maria Consolata Iriamurai Parish in Embu County, Ruku said he recognized the anger among young people but warned against turning protests into platforms for destruction.
“Our youth are speaking, and we must listen,” Ruku said on Saturday. “But we cannot solve problems by destroying what we’ve built. Dialogue, not destruction, is what will move this country forward.”
The planned protests aim to mark the anniversary of last year’s June 25 demonstrations, where lives were lost during confrontations between protesters and police. This year’s mobilization is largely driven by young Kenyans organizing on social media.
Ruku cautioned against political exploitation of the protests, accusing unnamed leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, of trying to incite tribal divisions for personal gain.
“There are leaders trying to divide this nation along tribal lines,” he said. “But the youth are not asking for tribal alliances—they are asking for justice, jobs, and good governance. That’s where we must focus.”
Ruku pointed to development milestones under President William Ruto’s administration as evidence that change is underway. He highlighted a KSh 2 billion water supply project in Mbeere, where KSh 600 million has already been committed, along with progress on the Kiritiri-Kiambere road and the Kamburu bulk water project.
He also cited the recruitment of 76,000 teachers over the past two years, with a target of 24,000 more by December 2025. Other efforts include expanded electricity connections, new classroom construction, more public markets, and rollout of additional Huduma Centers.
“We must show the youth that government works,” he said. “Public servants must be impartial, responsive, and committed to serving all Kenyans equally.”
Ruku called for national unity and asked politicians to focus on development rather than early campaigns.
“This is not the season for politics,” he said. “It’s the season to work.”
Embu Senator Alexander Mundigi supported the call for calm, emphasizing the need for political restraint. Former Kenya National Union of Teachers official Wilson Sossion praised Ruku’s approach and urged leaders to reject divisive rhetoric.
Gatundu North MP Elijah Njoroge pledged continued support for grassroots development, while Laikipia West MP Wachira Karani criticized opposition figures for offering criticism without presenting viable alternatives.
Mbeere South MP Nebart Muriuki reaffirmed the region’s support for President Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. He urged the youth to reject ethnic politics and focus on building the nation.
“We hear you. We see you,” Muriuki said. “Let us build together not tear down our country.”
The message from Embu comes as national attention shifts toward Wednesday’s demonstrations, with the government urging calm and civil engagement.
