President William Ruto has announced a national multisectoral forum set for July 15 to address critical issues raised by the country’s youth, following three weeks of intense protests.
The six-day forum will focus on employment, tax policies, national debt, representation and accountability, and anti-corruption measures. “We have had consultations and agreed to move ahead with the multisectoral forum,” Ruto stated in Nairobi during a meeting with opposition leaders, including former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The announcement comes in the wake of widespread anti-government protests triggered by the controversial Finance Bill 2024, which has since been withdrawn from parliament. The protests, predominantly led by young people, resulted in at least 41 deaths and over 360 injuries, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.
The demonstrators voiced their anger over proposed tax hikes on essential goods and services, such as bread and mobile money transfers, aimed at meeting government revenue targets.
The forum will include 150 members, with 50 youth representatives and 100 participants from religious institutions, civil society, professional organizations, and political parties. President Ruto emphasized the importance of collective effort in addressing the current economic situation and forging a new path for the country. “I welcome all leaders and stakeholders to work together to address the current economic situation through a broad-based political arrangement,” he said.
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Opposition leader Raila Odinga echoed the call for dialogue, highlighting the need for a platform where the people’s grievances can be heard and resolved. “We have agreed to give the people an opportunity to be heard and to articulate the grievances that are ailing our country so that a lasting solution can be found,” Odinga stated.
The upcoming forum aims to bring together diverse voices to collaboratively address the challenges facing Kenya and pave the way for a more inclusive future.
