Kangema MP Peter Kihungi during a church service at ACK Kiairathe church on August 3, 2025Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has been urged to step in and help mediate between agitated youths and the government in a bid to restore calm and create a conducive environment for economic and social stability.
Uhuru visited State House last Friday to attend the East African Community and Southern African Development Community (EAC–SADC) joint summit on the peace process in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Following the summit, President William Ruto took Kenyatta on a tour of the newly renovated State House.
Speaking during a church service at Kiairathe ACK in Kangema, area MP Peter Kihungi called on the former Head of State to consider playing a more active role in helping to resolve political tensions that have arisen since last year.
Kihungi cited recent protests that turned violent in various parts of the country, resulting in disruptions to business operations and the loss of lives, particularly among the youth.
“Every time there were protests on Tuesdays and Thursdays, people living in Nairobi would only work for three days a week, which caused heavy losses. Those of us living away from Nairobi only felt the impact of the protests when they eventually spread,” he said.
According to reports from Murang’a County traders, demonstrations led to an estimated Sh500 million in losses due to disruptions and damage to businesses.
The MP noted that tensions between young people and the national leadership have contributed to growing public anxiety and an economic slowdown.
He said Kenyatta’s experience in leadership and navigating past political challenges places him in a strong position to offer guidance and promote dialogue.
“I remember there was a time when Speaker Moses Wetang’ula appealed to the former President to break his silence and offer his perspective on the ongoing political issues, given his statesmanship,” Kihungi said.
He encouraged Kenyans to support Kenyatta’s role as a neutral voice who can represent those feeling politically sidelined or affected by the impasse.
He emphasised that any mediatory role would require neutrality and that, as a retired president not seeking re-election, Kenyatta is well-positioned to act in the country’s broader interest.
Kihungi also noted that the involvement of Jubilee leaders in the Kenya Kwanza government is an indication that Kenyatta is not necessarily opposed to the current administration.
“Even with his position as Jubilee party leader, he has not shown intent to engage in political confrontation. We need a voice of reason that does not take sides. In a democracy, it is important that all parties have space to talk,” he said.
He added that many Kenyans, particularly those in business, are weary of political unrest and are looking for a peaceful environment to sustain their livelihoods.
