The two mean well for the country and have come to appreciate the state of affairs and have prescribed a roadmap towards addressing the concerns of the young people.
Recently, the President wrote to Parliament through a memorandum asking for total rejection of the Finance Bill as demanded by Gen Z. In the same breath, Ruto last week ceded to the demands of Kenyans and dissolved the Cabinet. Yet again in the same week he assented to the much-awaited IEBC (Amendment) Bill, 2024, into law.
The law will now see the formation of a selection panel to advertise, shortlist and conduct interviews for suitable persons to be appointed as chairperson and commissioners to the electoral agency.
These concessions show goodwill on the side of the President in listening to his people and addressing their concerns.
Dialogue will create a platform for political leaders across all political formations, youth, civil society, Parliament, Judiciary and other stakeholders to engage the head of state in the betterment of our governance. Those concerned will express their grievances, concerns and aspirations for constructive engagement, negotiation and compromise to reach mutually beneficial solutions.
The engagement seeks to untie the knot and address the underlying issues that have led to the protests, identify common ground and work towards building a more inclusive government that will give rise to a more responsive and just society.
The ODM leader has been steadfast in his calls for dialogue as the only way to de-escalate tensions, reduce violence and prevent further unrest. As a country, when a leader like Raila comes out to help the President address the challenges the government is facing, there is need for us to appreciate and support the move.
The former premier is a nationalist who has the country at heart and knows that if we allow this country to regress into anarchy all of us will lose. Those who are ridiculing and calling him names have never understood him. He means well for this country.
The only thing that we ask for is an atmosphere of trust, respect and cooperation that is essential for building a harmonious Kenya. The dialogue and consultations should have open and honest communication.
Mr President, after the talks you will be expected to constitute a new Cabinet. In your address to the nation and the subsequent addresses you have indicated that your next Cabinet will reflect the diversity that Kenya is. It is also imperative that you appoint individuals of impeccable character who will ensure effective governance and service delivery to the Kenyans.
A Cabinet composed of competent and ethical individuals who prioritise public interest over personal gain. Kenya is not short of leaders with impeccable credentials and who exude integrity, transparency, accountability and ethical standards in their roles. Men and women who are committed to serving the nation with dedication, honesty and professionalism. Such leaders will inspire confidence among the populace and set a positive example for others to follow.
It is also time to address nepotism, corruption and favouritism, which has undermined public trust in the government. Slay these dragons as you engage Kenyans.
This period of dialogue Mr President is also an opportune moment to address the issue of government communications comprehensively. Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful government, as it ensures transparency, accountability and public trust. This will lead to better dissemination of information about the government’s achievements, policies and initiatives.
It is time Mr President to overhaul your communication strategy and redesign it to outline key messages, target audiences,and channels for dissemination. A strategy that is alive to the huge and enhanced digital presence: leveraging digital platforms such as social media, websites and mobile apps to reach a wider audience and engage with citizens more effectively.
Your administration should also prioritise transparency by proactively sharing information about its activities, decisions and outcomes with the public. That includes building strong relationships with the media to help ensure accurate reporting and wider coverage of government initiatives. The media is a critical component of informing the masses. Ensure that government officials involved in communications are well trained to enhance their skills in crafting compelling messages and engaging with the public.
Finally, Mr President it is increasingly becoming extremely important that you regularly have public engagements, press conferences and other public forums to facilitate direct interaction between government officials and citizens.
To the Gen Z, you have made your call, the government and other political leaders have heard your voice crystal clear. Its time to allow them to address the concerns that you have raised. Some of these concerns are not instant coffee. Let us be patient with the leadership to address them.
Former president of Football Kenya Federation
