President William Ruto’s daughter, Charlene Ruto, says young people are not driven by destruction but desire a platform to express themselves.
Speaking through her X account amid the recent nationwide protests, Charlene emphasised that the conversation is no longer about demanding a seat at the table, but about earning a place in each other’s hearts.
“For the last three years, I have quickly learnt that young people are actually looking for connection, not conflict; a platform, not destruction; mentorship, not violence; and they definitely want to be part of the solution, not the problem,” she stated.
She cautioned against encouraging generational, tribal, or racial divisions, stating that mob mentality, peer pressure, and hate raids (“kusalimia watu”) do not represent true unity.
Having faced online backlash herself under the “kusalimia” trend, Charlene called for more respectful and reform-driven engagement, challenging young Kenyans to turn passion into policy, ideas into action, and emotions into patriotism.
The remarks by Charlene come at a time when Kenyans are intensifying their push for accountability using social media platforms and] by taking part in demonstrations.
Some of the protests turned chaotic after they were infiltrated by hooligans who looted properties, injured others, and destroyed critical infrastructure.
As Gen Z continues to lead calls for accountability online and on the streets, Charlene emphasised the need to pursue policy impact and provocation.
