Governors, religious leaders to take part in Gen Z talks with the Government

President William Ruto. [Kelly Ayodi, Standard]

The Office of the President has directed at least ten groups to nominate two members each to form a 100-member Steering Committee for a Multi-Sectoral Forum addressing issues raised by the youth in the country.

Among those involved are nationwide umbrella organizations representing youth, civil society, religious organizations, the business community, academia, student leadership, Majority and Minority leaders of Parliament, and the Council of Governors, among other stakeholder groups.

These groups are tasked with providing a framework, agenda, and timelines for a national dialogue on the nation's tax policy, anti-corruption measures, representation, and accountability, among other issues.

According to the President's Chief of Staff, Felix Kosgei, the committee will operate independently, conducting activities across the country with the aim of inclusivity and openness.

"In his national address, His Excellency the President announced that a National Multi-Sectoral Forum (NMSF) would be constituted to engage all stakeholders in addressing the concerns raised by the youth. The forum, upon establishment, will carry out its activities independently across all 47 counties through a participatory, citizen-centric, and inclusive process from the ward level," read part of the statement.

Nominations are to be completed by July 7, with the President leading the first meeting once it commences.

The committee was formed after youth across the country staged demonstrations demanding the withdrawal of the 2024 Finance Bill, good leadership, and an end to corruption, among other issues.