Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has issued a cautionary appeal to the youth of Kenya, emphasizing the critical need to balance the push for governance reforms with the preservation of peace and stability. Speaking at a recent event, Mudavadi underscored the potential dangers of allowing the country to spiral into chaos, particularly in the wake of recent violent protests.
“As we reform, as we put corrective measures in place, going forward, our key anchor must be peace and stability so that that environment can be conducive for everybody to go about their activity,” Mudavadi stated.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary expressed deep concern that the ongoing political unrest and violent demonstrations could jeopardize Kenya’s political and economic future. Drawing attention to the precarious situations in neighboring countries, Mudavadi highlighted the severe humanitarian crises and prolonged instability in places like Sudan and Somalia.
“If you are a young person today, say 18 or 20 years old, and your country is thrown into turmoil and does not recover for the next 40 years, tell me where you will be,” Mudavadi posed to the audience.
He cited Sudan as a poignant example, where millions are experiencing dire humanitarian conditions, and millions more have been displaced. Similarly, he mentioned Somalia, which has been grappling with instability since 1990 and is only now beginning to show signs of recovery.
“In some of our neighboring countries, so let’s not take our peace and stability for granted. Let us take corrective measures but not undermine the peace and stability. The countries that have suffered have taken up to 40 years to start showing signs of recovery,” he elaborated.
Mudavadi also pointed out that the actions of the youth could significantly affect their reputation and future opportunities. He urged young people to maintain the discipline and focus that have characterized Kenya’s youth historically.
“I want to appeal to our young people, as they speak to us on other aspects of economy and governance in the country, I also appeal to them not to undermine the credentials of a disciplined youth that emerges from Kenya,” he said.
“Let us not undermine our credentials. We have achieved something, through our young people as being disciplined and focused. Let’s make sure that specific strength or attribute is not undermined by our actions that do not reflect discipline as we go forward. It could have an impact on the opportunities we are providing both outside and even internally; we must not scare potential industrialists on the ability and character of our young people,” Mudavadi reiterated.
Mudavadi’s appeal comes at a critical time when the youth, driven by a desire for better governance and economic opportunities, are increasingly vocal and active in the political arena. However, his message serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required to achieve progress without sacrificing the peace and stability that are essential for long-term national prosperity.
As Kenya navigates this complex landscape, the words of Prime Cabinet Secretary Mudavadi provide a timely reminder of the importance of pursuing reforms with a steady and balanced approach, ensuring that the future remains bright for the country’s youth and the nation as a whole.
