South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro faced intense backlash after urging young Kenyans, particularly those from Generation Z, to show more respect towards President William Ruto. The controversy erupted following Osoro’s remarks on his X (formerly Twitter) account, where he condemned the youth’s perceived lack of decorum when addressing the President.
The Call for Respect
Osoro, known for his unwavering support for President Ruto, took to social media to express his dismay over the irreverent attitude displayed by some young Kenyans towards the Head of State. In his post, the lawmaker emphasized the need for ‘morality’ and proper conduct when expressing opinions about the President. He questioned the audacity of a 20-year-old to address the President as if they were peers, likening such behaviour to the very issues the youth are fighting against.
“How can a 20-year-old approach the President like his own agemate? Such frivolous behaviour is not any less different from the causes they are fighting against,” Osoro stated.
Mixed Reactions
Osoro’s comments sparked a heated debate on social media, drawing a wide range of reactions from the public. While some agreed with his stance, arguing that respect for authority and elders is a cornerstone of Kenyan culture, others felt that his remarks were out of touch with the realities of modern society and the principles of free speech.
Critics accused Osoro of attempting to stifle dissent and undermine the democratic right to criticize leaders. They argued that respect should be earned and not demanded, especially in a democratic society where leaders are accountable to the people.
“Respect is earned, not demanded. Leaders should be open to criticism and differing opinions,” one user commented.
Generation Z’s Perspective
Generation Z, known for their outspoken nature and willingness to challenge authority, took particular offense to Osoro’s remarks. Many young Kenyans expressed their frustration, stating that their critiques are not borne out of disrespect but a desire for accountability and change.
“We are not being disrespectful; we are holding our leaders accountable. If they can’t handle criticism, maybe they are in the wrong profession,” another user responded.
The Broader Context
Osoro’s comments come at a time when the Kenyan youth are increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction with the government and societal issues. From unemployment and corruption to education and healthcare, young Kenyans are using social media and other platforms to voice their concerns and demand better governance.
This incident highlights the growing divide between the older generation of politicians and the youth, who are pushing for a more transparent and accountable government. It also underscores the tension between traditional values and the evolving norms of a digital age where freedom of expression is paramount.
Conclusion
MP Silvanus Osoro’s call for respect towards President William Ruto has ignited a broader conversation about the role of respect in political discourse and the rights of young people to criticize their leaders. As Kenya navigates this evolving dynamic, it is clear that the voices of the youth will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s future. The challenge lies in finding a balance between maintaining cultural values and embracing the principles of democracy and free speech.
