President William Ruto’s claim of an attempted coup during Monday’s violent protests has escalated an already tense political climate.
At least 31 lives were lost, and property worth billions destroyed.
The President has issued a stern warning to those he believes are plotting to overthrow his administration. In turn, the United Opposition has strongly denied the allegations and dared him to arrest them.
This back-and-forth is dangerous and unproductive. It pushes the country further into a zero-sum political game where no one wins—and ordinary Kenyans lose the most.
The current posturing and hardened rhetoric risk plunging the nation into deeper unrest and division. We urge all leaders to tone down their statements and prioritise the country’s stability above personal or political interests.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga has proposed an intergenerational dialogue. It is a commendable idea—one that should be expanded upon and supported by other leaders across the political divide.
Kenya stands at a crossroads. Only inclusive, honest and forward-looking dialogue can break this deadlock and prevent further bloodshed.
Let the focus shift from power struggles to solutions. The country cannot afford another day of violence.
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Quote of the day: “The torture of a bad
conscience is the hell of a living soul.”
—Protestant religious reformer and theologian
John Calvin was born on July 10, 1509
