As Kenyans marked the second anniversary of the youth-led demonstrations that significantly influenced the country's political landscape, Gatundu North MP Elijah Kururia sparked debate by urging young people not to risk their lives in political contests.
The legislator argued that Kenya's history shows many people who sacrificed greatly for national causes were never fully rewarded or recognised.
According to him, those who are injured or lose their lives during political unrest are often remembered only briefly before public attention moves on.
Speaking as commemorations and demonstrations were held across different parts of the country, Kururia encouraged the youth to prioritise their safety over political activism.
To reinforce his message, the MP referred to key moments in Kenya's history, including the struggle for independence and episodes of political violence that left many dead or displaced. He noted that numerous affected families are still seeking justice and support years later.
Kururia also mentioned the young people who lost their lives during the 2024 anti-government protests, saying some of their families continue to struggle for closure even as national attention shifts to other political issues.
He further observed that members of the security forces who are injured or killed while serving the country have also, at times, faced inadequate recognition and long-term support for their families.
His remarks came amid heightened security deployments in major towns and cities as thousands of Kenyans reflected on the legacy of the Gen Z movement, which has become a significant force in the country's political discourse.
The MP also challenged young people to carefully examine the track records of politicians seeking their support, urging citizens to assess leaders based on their actions before joining political campaigns.
His comments generated mixed reactions online. While some agreed that safeguarding lives should take precedence, others maintained that peaceful demonstrations and civic participation remain constitutional avenues for pushing for accountability and meaningful reforms.
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