Rise Up for Change: Why Gen Z, Gen X, And Millennials Won’t Stop Protesting Until Their Demands Are Met

In Kenya, a powerful wave of discontent is sweeping across generations, uniting Gen Z, Gen X, and Millennials in a common cause. Their message is clear: they are fed up with the status quo and demand significant change. The protests show no signs of ending until their voices are heard, and their demands are met. This movement, characterized by its refusal to engage in mere dialogue, emphasizes action and accountability. Here’s why these protests have ignited and why they will continue until tangible change is achieved.

The primary catalyst for these protests is a deep-seated frustration with rampant corruption within the government. For decades, Kenyans have watched as officials enrich themselves at the public’s expense. The younger generations, who face the brunt of economic challenges, have had enough. They see the direct correlation between corruption and their everyday struggles, from unemployment to inadequate healthcare and education.

Unemployment is another critical issue fueling the protests. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, are grappling with high joblessness rates despite being more educated than previous generations. The promise of education translating into employment has been broken, leading to disillusionment and anger. They are no longer willing to accept empty promises from politicians; they demand real job opportunities and economic stability.

The state of healthcare in Kenya is deplorable, with many citizens unable to access basic medical services. Hospitals are underfunded and understaffed, leaving millions vulnerable. This crisis has galvanized people across generations, who view functional healthcare institutions as a fundamental right. They are protesting not just for themselves but for a system that ensures every Kenyan can receive adequate medical care.

Education, once seen as a beacon of hope, has become another area of contention. The quality of education has declined, and the disparity between public and private schooling widens the gap between the rich and the poor. Young people, in particular, are demanding an overhaul of the education system to ensure that it equips them with the skills needed for the modern job market.

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Law enforcement and the justice system are also under intense scrutiny. The protesters decry the brutality and impunity of the police, calling for a force that serves the people rather than oppresses them. The call for justice extends to those who have been abducted, tortured, and killed by the government, with protesters demanding accountability and reforms to end such human rights abuses.

The political class in Kenya is perceived as self-serving, disconnected from the needs of the populace. Protesters are calling for leaders who genuinely serve the people, not their own interests. This demand is not just about changing faces in government but about fundamentally transforming how politics is practiced in the country.

The protesters have rejected dialogue with the government, seeing it as a stalling tactic rather than a path to real change. Past dialogues have often resulted in superficial changes without addressing the root causes of Kenya’s problems. The demand now is for concrete actions, not more talks that lead nowhere.

The call for President Ruto to step down encapsulates the protesters’ desire for a new beginning. They believe that under his leadership, the issues of corruption, unemployment, poor healthcare, and inadequate education have worsened. Their rallying cry, #RutoMustGo, symbolizes the broader demand for a government that respects the rule of law and prioritizes the welfare of its citizens.

Each protest is a powerful statement of collective frustration and determination. The demonstrators are not just fighting for their generation but for a better Kenya for all. They understand that their actions today will shape the future of their country, and they are willing to fight until that future is secured.

The protests are also a testament to the power of social media in mobilizing and sustaining movements. Platforms like Twitter and Facebook have been instrumental in organizing protests, spreading awareness, and keeping the momentum alive. The hashtag #RutoMustGo has become a unifying banner under which diverse groups rally.

What is striking about these protests is the intergenerational solidarity. Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z are united in their demands, recognizing that their issues are interconnected. This unity is a formidable force that the government cannot easily dismiss.

As the protests continue, the government faces increasing pressure to respond not with platitudes but with substantial reforms. The people’s patience has worn thin, and the urgency of their demands is clear. They are not just seeking to topple a leader but to rebuild their country from the ground up.

In essence, the protests in Kenya are about more than just the immediate grievances. They represent a broader struggle for a country that works for everyone, not just a privileged few. The resolve of Gen Z, Gen X, and Millennials to see this struggle through to the end signifies a pivotal moment in Kenya’s history. They are demanding a better tomorrow, and they are willing to fight for it today. If you want a better tomorrow, come out tomorrow.

Read Also: Kenya’s Gen Z Leads a Revolution: A Demand For Justice, Accountability, And Economic Reform