Kenyans Debate Duale's Warning to Uhuru

Speaking on Saturday, January 18, in Garissa during the opening of the Garissa Secondary School Teachers' Association, Duale alleged that Uhuru’s recent remarks could destabilize the nation.

Duale expressed concern over what he described as the former president’s dangerous rhetoric, urging Kenyan youth to disregard such advice.

Instead, he called on Uhuru to prioritize uniting the country and fostering prosperity.

“Regardless of our political ideologies and differences, we urge all leaders to refrain from encouraging our youth—the future of this country—to engage in violence, civil disobedience, lawlessness, or any other acts of defiance that undermine the rule of law in our nation,” said Duale.

Uhuru’s Message to the Youth

The former president had made the contentious remarks during the burial of his first cousin in Ngong on Friday, January 17.

Addressing young Kenyans, Uhuru stated the importance of advocating for good governance, urging them not to relent in their efforts to hold the government accountable.

Uhuru cautioned the youth against complacency, warning that their rightful opportunities were being eroded. Reflecting on past youth-led movements that challenged oppressive regimes, he reiterated his support for their cause.

“The key to unlocking Kenya's potential, which has been held back by poor leadership, lies with the current generation,” Uhuru stated.

He encouraged the youth to remain fearless and to continue standing up for the politically marginalized and oppressed.

Government’s Response and Social Media Regulation

Uhuru’s comments come against the backdrop of the government’s plans to regulate social media platforms.

The Ministry of Interior recently held discussions with social media companies and telecommunications firms to address the rising hostility online, particularly criticism directed at President William Ruto’s administration.

The government alleges that social media has been weaponized to fuel dissent, prompting concerns over its impact on national stability.

Public Reactions

Duale’s remarks sparked heated discussions online, with Kenyans expressing varied opinions on the issue.

Read some of the comments below:

OsinT @bk9233988 Kwani Duale alijoin Ile mrengo ya 527

ALEX GITAU @KIBE_WAGITAU We will fight for our rights Kenyan Justice

@ItsObesh Duale hana akili. Aende ajenge Somalia ?? Wambugu Amos

@wambuguamos2 Between Kenyatta and Sudi remarks whose worst? Funda. UNRULY.

@fidell320 Kuna vile ruto alikaanga uhuru Mahali hii sio bure #Dida

@KusematechAfric Kijana maintain your cool. Wachana na mambo ya siasa Kariwok ? ?

@manifestosantoz Ngoja #rejectfinancebill2025 wataona youths against govt for the last time. 

@jemomachangi Mungiki is back and soon they'll form a special unit to eliminate young people from Mt Kenya.... 

@wanjirukihiu Which violence armed with a phone, water and Kenyan flag? Where has there been violence by the people, especially the youth, when agitating for good governance and accountability?