MACHAKOS, Kenya – Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has criticized former President Uhuru Kenyatta for urging the youth to fight for good governance, questioning his newfound stance on youth issues and accusing him of hypocrisy.
Speaking to the media, Murkomen expressed disbelief at Kenyatta’s recent comments at Makerere University, where the former president called on African youth to advocate for better governance.
Murkomen argued that it was absurd for Kenyatta to suddenly position himself as an expert on the issue, just months after leaving office.
“Suddenly, he’s very clever and lecturing us on how the youth should fight for good governance. He left office just the other day, and even his administrative ink has not dried yet,” Murkomen remarked. “It’s perplexing that now he notices the critical role the youth play when, during his tenure, he failed to address their concerns.”
Murkomen, however, acknowledged the country’s youth bulge, describing it as a pressing issue that President William Ruto’s administration is committed to addressing.
The CS pointed out that youth unemployment is a major challenge facing Kenya, and that the government has prioritized tackling it through a series of initiatives under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
“We are fully aware of the challenges the youth face, particularly unemployment. This administration is focused on providing real solutions through programs that will equip them with skills, and more importantly, opportunities,” Murkomen said.
He highlighted the government’s efforts to attract international investment, with President Ruto working diligently to position Kenya as an attractive destination for global businesses.
“The President is selling Kenya abroad, showcasing the various opportunities for investors,” Murkomen added. “The aim is to create job opportunities for our youth and empower them economically.”
Murkomen also emphasized that addressing youth concerns should be a collaborative effort, urging all leaders to focus on practical solutions.
While Kenyatta had, in his lecture, pointed out the need for young people to fight for good governance, Murkomen pointed out that it was now up to all leaders, including Kenyatta, to actively contribute to solutions that empower the youth.
“The youth are crucial to the future of our nation, and it’s time we move beyond speeches and work on tangible solutions. This government is committed to that,” he said.
In addition to his criticism of Kenyatta, Murkomen also turned his attention to Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, urging him to seize the opportunity to join Ruto’s government rather than waiting for 2027.
This challenge came in response to calls from Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi and other Kamba leaders, who urged President Ruto to visit the region before Musyoka takes the reins in 2027.
Murkomen questioned why Musyoka had not yet joined the government and challenged him to do so now, when the door remains open for all.
“What’s stopping Kalonzo from joining us now instead of waiting for later?” Murkomen asked. “We have a broad-based government that brings everyone on board. He can contribute and share his ideas on how the government is governed.”
Murkomen’s challenge to Musyoka came amid a broader call for political unity and collaboration.
He reinforced that Ruto’s government is focused on inclusivity and bringing all leaders together for the benefit of the country, rather than dividing along party lines.
