Karua dismisses Ruto’s dialogue forum, terms it a trap to hijack Gen Z reforms

Karua stated that "dialogue can only be meaningful if the players are in good faith and guided by the best interests of the people."

"Let’s be careful as the political class lest we hijack the genuine clamour for accountability and reforms by the GenZ. I agree with those who say Action Now on the clear and attainable demands of the GenZ to enhance accountability and make the state work for the masses rather than for a handful elites," Karua said.

"This is a trap period," she added.

On the other hand, her Azimio la Umoja counterpart Eugene Wamalwa has said he is not boarding, meaning he rejects calls for a dialogue.

Their reaction comes hours after Ruto, backed by opposition leader Raila Odinga, announced a six-day multi-sectoral dialogue forum beginning Monday, July 15, to discuss issues pressing Kenyans.

Ruto said the forum will draw representatives from political parties, religious groups, civil society, employers and youth.

“In the interest of making sure we live within our means; all participants will bear their attendance costs. This is a result of consultations we have held this morning,” he said.

The President said the forum “will propose the way forward for the country.”

This follows deadly anti-government protests spearheaded by Gen Z, that led to the killing of over 40 people by security forces, and forced Ruto to drop the unpopular Finance Bill 2024. 

Gen Zs have continued to agitate for change, forcing Ruto to lay down austerity measures that will limit government spending. 

Ruto has also engaged the jilted youth on social media platforms, and promised changes that also include reducing the number of his advisers and scrapping off some state corporations.