Come let us reason together, clergy urge Gen Zs ahead of protests
By DANIEL KIGEN AND MUMBI WAINAINAThe Evangelical Alliance of Kenya (EAK) has commended Gen Z for their civility in fighting for their constitutional rights by peacefully demanding for relief from the economic burden of taxes imposed in the Finance Bill, 2024.
EAK has also acknowledged President William Ruto for heeding the call to reject the Finance Bill.
Speaking at a press conference on Citam Valley Road, African Gospel Church (AGC) Bishop Robert Lang’at said it was the first time in Kenya that demonstrations were organised and carried out by youths, mostly in their twenties, without a political party.
“It’s also the first time for Kenya to have a finance Bill rejected in totality by the president. It is the first time for the Kenyan parliament to use the military to deal with civil demonstrations,” said Bishop Lang’at.
The clergyman urged the President to prioritise the needs of Kenyans and pursue what is good for all citizens, adding that the government must focus on curbing corruption, reducing opulence and unnecessary spending and be at the forefront of upholding the rule of law.
AGC Bishop Geoffrey Njuguna pointed out that spiritual leaders have a mandate to shepherd all Kenyans and provide leadership that is redemptive for the nation.
He condemned the use of excessive force by security agencies against unarmed demonstrators, adding that security teams should arrest and charge in court any demonstrator who breaks the rule of law.
Bishop Njuguna also encouraged members of parliament to represent their people fairly and never to ignore the voice of the people they represent.
“Representation and public participation in legislation must work for Kenyans,” he said.
Bishop Njuguna urged Gen Z to be patient with the current government by ceasing demonstrations and de-escalating conflicts since the Head of State had acknowledged their grievances.
“Governments don’t last forever; every five years we have an opportunity to review our leadership. The constitution provides for means of engaging the government; let us use them,” he insisted.