Imams Urge Gen Z to Embrace Dialogue Over Protests Amid Rising Tensions in Kenya

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The Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) has urged the Gen Z demographic to suspend their nationwide protests and consider dialogue instead. Sheikh Mohamed Khalifa, the CIPK organizing secretary, emphasized that the President has addressed some of the Gen Z’s concerns, and it is now time for the youth to reciprocate by halting the protests.
Recent demonstrations were reported in Mombasa, where youth lit bonfires and blocked the Mombasa-Malindi highway at Bombolulu before being dispersed by police. As tensions rose, another group of young people gathered at Pembe za Ndovu, preparing for further protests while police took strategic positions to prevent violence.
Sheikh Khalifa, speaking from the CIPK offices, acknowledged the constitutional right to protest but stressed the importance of maintaining peace. “We have seen individuals exploit these protests to commit crimes, obstruct travel, and disrupt business activities,” he remarked. He added, “Peace is essential for development anywhere in the world,” expressing concern for the safety of the youth involved in demonstrations.
The cleric noted positive signs of change within the country, particularly citing the transfer of police officers at the Kware police station in Mukuru slums, where the bodies of ten women were discovered. Sheikh Khalifa awaits the results of investigations to determine the motives behind these incidents, including possible connections to freemasonry, thuggery, or cult activities.
CIPK also called for a politically neutral approach in the appointment of the next Cabinet, advocating for merit-based selections to prevent incompetence in leadership. Sheikh Khalifa referenced the President’s criticism of his own Cabinet, highlighting a need for capable leadership.
CIPK treasurer Sheikh Hassan Omar remarked on the challenging political climate in Kenya, asserting that only peace can lead the country forward. He praised ODM leader Raila Odinga for his meeting with President Ruto, noting that such actions help stabilize the situation due to Odinga’s substantial following. “A true statesman prioritizes the nation’s welfare over party politics,” Omar stated.
While acknowledging President Ruto’s willingness to initiate change, Omar cautioned that ongoing protests by Gen Z could lead to further discord. “The world is watching Kenya. Violence does not yield solutions; only dialogue can pave the way forward. When chaos ensues, no one remains safe,” he warned.
However, the cleric criticized the behavior of some governors, stating that their actions are exacerbating frustrations among the youth. “Elected to serve the people, they often act like royalty. Securing a meeting with a county chief is nearly impossible,” he remarked. He contrasted local leaders’ lifestyles with those in Europe, where leaders often utilize public transportation.