No generation is superior, Kindiki tells Kenyans to unite for progress

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged Kenyans to close the gaps between generations, saying no age group is above the other in the journey toward building a united country.

Speaking at the Madaraka Day celebrations held at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, Kindiki said every generation has a role to play, from those who fought for independence to the youth particularly the Gen Z, who are advocating for better governance and economic progress.

“We all belong to this country, no generation is superior to the other,” said Kindiki.

“The old have a role to play, the younger people have a role to play, our children have a role to play, and even the unborn when they arrive in the world through Kenya will have a role to play.”

His remarks come at a time when the national discourse has been dominated by conversations on the Gen Z following last year’s youth-led protests over Finance Bill 2024 and their frustrations surrounding unemployment, governance and inclusivity.

Kindiki noted that just as Kenya’s founding fathers fought for independence, today’s leaders have a responsibility to liberate the country’s economy to improve the lives of its people.

“This generation owes the generation that fought for political freedom the debt of fighting for the economic freedom of our country. I am satisfied that we are on course to paying the historical debt of our forefathers by ensuring that we also provide economic freedom to Kenya and its people,” he stated.

The Deputy President lauded the efforts of President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga to foster national dialogue through the broad based government, saying it sets a foundation for unity beyond ethnic or religious lines.

“It is clear that between yourself and Raila you are speaking to the nation so we can forge closer ties among citizens of Kenya, reduce barriers brought about by ethnicity, religion… build a more inclusive Kenya where one’s place of birth, religion, or ethnicity doesn’t have to count,” he said.

Madaraka Day, observed annually on June 1, commemorates Kenya’s attainment of internal self-rule in 1963.

This year’s theme was ‘Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs.’