NAKURU — The Kenya Internally Displaced Persons Organization (KIDPO) has issued a call for national dialogue between leaders and young people who have taken to the streets in protest against the Finance Bill 2024.

According to Kenya News Agency, the organization is advocating for a peaceful resolution and urges the youth to give dialogue a chance, allowing President William Ruto to address their concerns. Tena highlighted that further actions, such as threats to occupy government offices, were unnecessary as the government has shown a commitment to engage with Gen Z and openly communicate forthcoming steps. He emphasized that the efforts of President Ruto to revive the economy and unify the country hinge on maintaining peace, stating that without peace, other efforts are futile.

“The government has recognized the unity and demands of the protesters, and it is now time to allow the government to enact a fair Bill that does not overburden the citizens,” Tena stated during a press briefing in Nakuru. He reiterated the importance of upholding peace and respecting the rule of law, noting that constitutional rights can only be enjoyed in a functioning state.

Tena expressed regret over the loss of lives during the protests and stressed the importance of preserving stability through democratic and inclusive processes. He warned against the dangers of the country slipping into a cycle of instability and authoritarianism, which could lead to increased corruption and economic mismanagement, ultimately exacerbating the living conditions for Kenyans.

“To our young generation, the nation belongs to you, and your families are our families. We thank you for being our children, but we also have a nation which belongs to all of us. Let us all share by listening to one another, and we want to listen to you,” added Tena. He discouraged street demonstrations, noting that no protests have resulted in anything but loss of lives and property, and violence. However, he acknowledged the right to demonstrate, urging that it be done with decency and within the bounds of the law.

The Patron welcomed President Ruto’s stance, emphasizing that Gen Z constitutes a significant portion of the population and their input is crucial in resolving national issues. Tena called on leaders across the political spectrum to follow the President’s example and engage with the youth. He also urged Kenyans to embrace the biblical principle of ‘come, let’s reason together’ for the common good.

KIDPO Governing Council Member Reverend Harrison Kimani Mwangi also advocated for dialogue and understanding, emphasizing the need for leaders to engage in constructive conversations with the populace. “I pray for peace and understanding on the part of every Kenyan, and for all of us to remember that Kenya is bigger than any one of us; there is nothing cast in stone that cannot be changed,” he said, urging leaders to be accountable to the people.