In a powerful address on Thursday, July 10, 2025, Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto called on opposition leaders to cease inciting the nation’s youth to protest and instead present concrete, actionable solutions to address their pressing challenges.
Speaking with conviction, the President challenged his political rivals to move beyond rhetoric and empty sloganeering, urging them to propose viable plans to tackle issues such as unemployment, economic inequality, and the aspirations of Kenya’s younger generation.
A Call for Constructive Dialogue
President Ruto’s remarks come at a time when Kenya has witnessed a wave of youth-led protests, with young people expressing frustration over economic hardships, limited job opportunities, and governance issues.
While acknowledging the legitimacy of these concerns, the President emphasized that inciting unrest without offering alternatives is counterproductive and potentially harmful.
“I want my plan of creating employment opportunities for our young people to be tested against that of my competitors,” he declared, throwing down the gauntlet to opposition leaders to present their own strategies for addressing the nation’s challenges.
The President’s challenge underscores his administration’s focus on job creation and economic empowerment as central pillars of his governance agenda.
By inviting his opponents to propose better solutions, Ruto seeks to shift the national conversation from protest to policy, encouraging a constructive dialogue that prioritizes the welfare of Kenya’s youth.
Addressing Youth Unemployment
Youth unemployment remains one of Kenya’s most pressing issues, with millions of young people struggling to find meaningful work in an economy grappling with structural challenges.
According to recent data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, the unemployment rate among youth aged 15-34 stands at over 20%, significantly higher than the national average. This economic reality has fueled discontent, with many young Kenyans taking to the streets to demand change.
President Ruto’s administration has prioritized initiatives aimed at creating jobs and fostering entrepreneurship among the youth.
Programs such as the Hustler Fund, which provides affordable credit to small-scale entrepreneurs, and investments in technical and vocational training are designed to equip young people with the skills and resources needed to thrive in a competitive job market.
Additionally, the government has championed digital economy initiatives, including the expansion of internet access and support for tech startups, to tap into the potential of Kenya’s vibrant youth population.
In his address, Ruto reiterated his commitment to these initiatives, challenging opposition leaders to present alternative plans that could rival or surpass his administration’s efforts.
“Let us compare our ideas and let the best plan win for the sake of our young people,” he said, emphasizing the need for a solutions-driven approach to governance.
A Critique of Opposition Tactics
The President’s remarks were a direct critique of opposition leaders, whom he accused of exploiting the frustrations of Kenya’s youth for political gain.
By encouraging protests without offering clear policy alternatives, Ruto argued, these leaders risk escalating tensions and undermining national stability.
“Inciting our youth to take to the streets without a plan is not leadership,” he stated. “It is our collective responsibility to provide hope and opportunities, not chaos.”
This pointed critique comes amid heightened political tensions in Kenya, with opposition figures rallying young people to protest against perceived governance failures.
While protests have historically been a powerful tool for expressing dissent in Kenya, Ruto’s administration has warned that unchecked demonstrations could lead to violence and economic disruption, further exacerbating the challenges facing the country.
A Broader Vision for Kenya’s Future
President Ruto’s call for solutions over slogans aligns with his broader vision of transforming Kenya into a prosperous, inclusive, and forward-looking nation.
Since taking office, he has championed policies aimed at fostering economic growth, improving infrastructure, and addressing systemic inequalities.
However, his administration has faced criticism over the pace of progress and the implementation of key reforms, particularly in the face of global economic headwinds and domestic challenges.
By challenging his opponents to present their own plans, Ruto is not only defending his administration’s record but also seeking to elevate the quality of political discourse in Kenya.
His remarks signal a desire to move away from divisive politics and toward a more collaborative approach to addressing the nation’s challenges.
The Way Forward
As Kenya navigates this critical juncture, President Ruto’s call for constructive engagement offers an opportunity for all stakeholders—government, opposition, civil society, and the youth—to come together and chart a path forward.
For the opposition, the challenge is clear: move beyond criticism and present actionable policies that address the needs of Kenya’s young people.
For the government, the task is to deliver on its promises and demonstrate tangible progress in creating opportunities for the next generation.
The youth of Kenya, often described as the country’s greatest asset, are watching closely. Their demands for jobs, education, and a voice in governance must be met with meaningful action, not just words.
As President Ruto aptly stated, the time for empty sloganeering is over—it’s time for solutions that will shape a brighter future for all Kenyans.
Share This Post
