Embrace dialogue and speak to the people, not at them, Uhuru tells leaders

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta. [John Muchucha, Standard]

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has called on Kenyans to maintain peace in the wake of ongoing anti-Finance Bill 2024 protests.

He expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and emphasised the constitutional right to protest.

"It is the right of every Kenyan to protest as determined by the constitution we all promulgated in 2010. Leaders also must listen to those they lead," he said.

Uhuru’s statement comes as anti-Finance Bill protesters breached Parliament security and gained access to the compound.

The incident occurred shortly before 3:00 pm on Tuesday, 25 June, forcing MPs to flee to safety in the premise’s basement parking area.

Uhuru reminded leaders that their power is derived from the people, stressing the importance of adhering to democratic principles. He urged leaders to exercise restraint and engage with the populace.

"I call for calm and for the leadership to show restraint and do the right thing by listening to the people and not being antagonistic to them. Violence on either side is not the answer," he stated.

 He acknowledged the challenges of leading the country and called for wisdom and civility to prevail.

The former President also called for dialogue and understanding, reiterating the need for leaders to engage in constructive conversation with the people.

"I stand with you and I ask our leadership to embrace dialogue and speak to the people and not at the people. 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 explained.