Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu has come out to defend former President Uhuru Kenyatta against accusations that he has been inciting the youth amid growing political tensions.
Speaking on Monday, April 28, Mulu dismissed claims targeting Uhuru, noting that the frustrations voiced by young people stem from genuine grievances.
The MP stressed that the high unemployment rates and lack of sufficient opportunities have led to frustrations, making the youth a powerful and unified voice.
"It was unnecessary to attack Uhuru Kenyatta, as he was not inciting the youth. The Kenyan youth, given where they are today, don't need any mobilization to take a stand.
"They are well informed, educated and all crying out for employment, making this a common bond that could easily become a unifying factor," he said.
His remarks come just two days after Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen lashed at the former President over his remarks urging youth to 'stand up', accusing him of hypocrisy feigned as 'Wisdom' after leaving State House.
Murkomen's remarks came after Kenyatta called on African youth to fight for good governance and shun short term political gains, while delivering the keynote address at the second annual Guild Leaders’ Summit 2025 at Makerere University, Uganda.
During the lecture, Uhuru urged the youth to embrace their role as the freedom fighters of this era.
The fourth president highlighted Africa’s demographic advantage, noting that more than 65 percent of the continent’s population is under the age of 25, which presents a key opportunity to break free from cycles of division and corruption.
“You have the numbers, you have the time, and you have the energy to get involved and stay involved in governance discussions until you effect the changes you wish to see,” he stated.
He emphasized the urgent need for integrity-driven leadership and self-reliance to tackle the continent’s most pressing challenges. At the same time, he called on young Africans to seize the moment and become architects of a self-reliant and united continent.
“Young leaders should embrace merit-based governance, where policies serve long-term national interests. No one is coming to save us, and as the world turns increasingly inward, the places to seek refuge are rapidly disappearing.” he stated.
Murkomen, speaking during the Jukwaa la Usalama engagements in Machakos County on Saturday, April 26, rebuked Uhuru, stating that he had only just left the presidency, yet he was already acting like an “angel” and lecturing the public on how to oppose the government.
“You were President just yesterday. The ink you used to sign decisions as Head of State has not even dried. In fact, the very spot where you stepped when leaving State House has not even dried. Suddenly you have become very clever, and now you are giving us lectures about leading protests against the government.” he said.
Murkomen termed the actions as “exploitation of young people,” which he called unacceptable. He urged leaders from across the political divide to understand that this is not an issue for political gain, but one that requires collective responsibility from all.
The Interior Cs called for a collaborative effort in addressing youth concerns, admitting that the country is facing a youth bulge.
He noted that President William Ruto’s administration is focused on addressing Youth concerns including unemployment, citing his recent trip to China as a means to an end to attract investors, secure capital for infrastructure expansion and tackle the menace.
