Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has delivered a stark message to Kenya’s youth, warning them to actively engage in leadership and governance or face inheriting a nation in decline.
Addressing attendees at the ACK Church during the Kirinyaga Diocesan Youth Celebration, Dr. Matiang’i emphasized that the nation’s destiny is now firmly in the hands of its young people, challenging them to overcome apathy and reject ineffective leadership.
‘God has bestowed upon us a magnificent nation. Its deterioration stems from our mismanagement,’ he stated. ‘Young citizens, you bear a significant obligation to improve Kenya beyond its current state.’
He praised the youth for their developing unity that transcends ethnic boundaries, observing that many have embraced a ‘tribeless’ existence in recent times.
However, he warned that unity alone is insufficient without political involvement and accountability. ‘You represent the majority, and politics is fundamentally a numbers game. Seize control of that game,’ Dr. Matiang’i instructed the audience. ‘Assume leadership positions at every level and prevent unqualified individuals from holding responsible roles.’
The former Cabinet Secretary also implored young voters to carefully evaluate leaders and reject poor performance during elections. ‘Assist us in purifying this nation. Pose challenging questions. If we do not merit your trust, deny us the opportunity,’ he declared.
Dr. Matiang’i cautioned that Kenya’s current predicaments are largely self-imposed, resulting from inadequate leadership choices, but expressed optimism that the youth can reverse this trajectory through enlightened and resolute measures.