Gen Zs still dissatisfied with Ruto's 'new cabinet'

Gen Z protesters match along Moi Avenue in Nairobi during anti-government demonstrations on July 23, 2024.[Boniface Okendo, Standard]

Youths who had hoped for a different outcome for days have continued to express their displeasure with President William Ruto's cabinet nominees.

In the streets, Gabriel Stanley, a medical student, voiced his disappointment, accusing opposition leaders of exploiting Gen Z's push for a better country for political gain.

"There is no major change in the Cabinet," said Stanley. "President Ruto has simply recycled people who have previously held office. It is unfair for Gen Z's cause to be turned into a political movement by the opposition."

"The Gen Z have been protesting for months, and now the move has been hijacked by the opposition to secure seats in office," he added.

Ammy Anne, a journalism student, remarked that the President has not adequately addressed the concerns of the youth.

According to Anne, despite public concerns, the President went ahead to nominate individuals with questionable merit.

"I don't see how he overlooks qualified individuals with potential and instead brings back those we do not want. The country needs accountable leaders with merit, not famous political figures. The youth want governance based on merit, so we will not relent until leaders take full responsibility for their actions," she stated.

Edwin Kahuthu emphasised on the importance of including Gen Z, Millennials, and the physically challenged in the cabinet. Adding that those nominated should aid the fight against corruption in the country.

Branice Undisa, a university student, also criticised the nomination of cabinet secretaries who had been previously fired. "He simply reshuffled them. It's as if they were just on a week's leave," she stated.

These setiments come days after President Ruto unveiled his second batch of Cabinet nominees among them four ODM officials.

According to President Ruto, the decision to include ODM officials including its chair John Mbadi aims at creating a broad-based government.

The 21 nominees await their vetting by Members of Parliament next week.