Government spokesman Isaac Mwaura has suggested that foreign powers might be influencing the Finance Bill protests by Kenyan youths.
In a Saturday night briefing, Mwaura acknowledged the legitimate concerns being raised but hinted at potential political motives behind the protests.
"Gen Zs, please listen to me. I understand many of you have genuine concerns, but there seems to be a group that may be influenced by foreign interests," he said.
Mwaura pointed out that President William Ruto's strong international stance might have upset certain foreign entities.
He referenced Ruto's recent statements at the Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland, where the President urged Russia to cease its aggression against Ukraine.
He also noted Ruto's consistent advocacy for restructuring the global financial system to better serve Africa's needs, which might be unpopular with some international figures.
"Our president has been very vocal on the international stage, including on climate change. He has united Africa, which might not sit well with everyone. Recently, he addressed the Russian invasion's impact on Kenya’s grain and wheat supplies, which displeased some. His call for changes in the financial system to free us from economic subjugation has also ruffled feathers," Mwaura explained.
The Government spokesman urged Kenyan youths to be cautious with their actions.
"We want a strong nation and cannot afford to destabilize it like what happened in Libya and during the Arab Spring in Egypt. We should aim for constructive engagement with the government. If we truly seek dialogue, let’s sit down and talk."
Last week, Gen Zs in Kenya staged nationwide protests against the Finance Bill, 2024, calling for its rejection due to punitive taxes.
The protests began in Nairobi on Tuesday, continued in Mombasa on Wednesday, and spread to other parts of the country, including Kisii, Kisumu, Nakuru, Nyeri, and Nanyuki, on Thursday.
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