MERU, Kenya – Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has given the youth a green light to critique the government, emphasizing the importance of their role in promoting good governance and democracy.
However, he cautioned against the exploitation of the youth by political leaders with ulterior motives, urging them to avoid being manipulated into causing unrest.
“It is not a mistake to encourage the youth to push for good governance. I ascribe to the same philosophy myself as this will grow our democracy,” Murkomen stated.
The CS emphasized that the youth’s voices are crucial in strengthening governance, especially when they speak up on the areas that need improvement.
According to Murkomen, calling out government missteps in an objective manner will foster better decision-making and contribute to the growth of the economy.
“The youth should be at the forefront in fighting graft and calling for good governance. This should be done without malice. The youth’s voices will be heard,” he added.
Despite his support for youthful participation in political discourse, Murkomen was firm in his stance against allowing leaders to manipulate young people for their own agendas.
“Leaders with ill motives are out there looking to use the youth for chaos, and we must shield our young people from such misuse,” he said.
Murkomen’s remarks came in response to calls from former President Uhuru Kenyatta and his brother Muhoho Kenyatta, who have urged young people not to remain silent but to fight for their rights.
The CS noted that while the youth should be empowered to speak up, their actions must be grounded in reason and contribute to positive change.
Currently on the first leg of the Jukwaa la Usalama counties tour in Upper Eastern Region, Murkomen is in Meru County, where he is addressing pressing local issues such as banditry, human trafficking, boundary disputes, and drug abuse.
The CS has long been an advocate for the responsible use of social media, frequently warning against the dangers of spreading misinformation and inciting hatred online.
As Murkomen continues his tour, his message to the youth remains clear: they are free to voice their opinions, but they must be vigilant against those who seek to incite division for their own political gain.
