Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has called on Gen Z protesters to embrace dialogue after several days of destructive anti-government demonstrations. He noted that while the protesters have legitimate concerns, the protests have been infiltrated by goons and looters causing chaos.
Bii urged the youth to end the protests and engage in dialogue as suggested by President William Ruto, who has withdrawn the controversial Finance Bill, 2024, which had sparked nationwide protests.
“I want to assure our youth that we have been keen to listen, understand and are working on providing solutions to the issues you have raised,” he said.
Bii said the youth have shown commendable sense of unity by coming out “tribeless, partyless and fearless” to express their concerns.
“As your governor and father, I appreciate, understand and respect your democratic right to picket, protest and voice your concerns publicly,” he said.
Governor Jonathan Bii addressed the situation as protests began to subside in Eldoret, following calls from local leaders and elders for the youth to withdraw and engage in dialogue. The protests had severely impacted Eldoret town, resulting in the destruction of county government property and looting of shops. Protesters breached security walls around the county headquarters, where a court, the national library, and several vehicles were set on fire.
Over 15 shops, mostly selling mobile phones and electronics, were vandalized and looted. Four deaths and multiple injuries, including those of 10 police officers, were reported. County operations have been disrupted for the past week, but Governor Bii stated that efforts are underway to make repairs and restore normalcy.
“I urge communities in Eldoret to maintain unity and peace as we work to restore county services to all residents,” Bii said.
Chairman of the chamber of commerce in the region, Willy Kenei, has called for calm and resumption of business activities.
“We regret the heavy losses suffered by the business community in Eldoret as a result of the protests and urge that all of us, including the youth, embrace peace as we deal with the issues raised,” he said.
Security has been tightened in the town, with police vehicles patrolling to ensure business operates as usual.
