Kiambu County Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa, has proposed the establishment of an Ad-Hoc Committee on youth governance concerns and Gen Z engagement.
In a letter addressed to Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, Karungo stated that the formed committee would operate within a specified timeframe to ensure focused and timely action.
He further asked the Speaker to give it prompt attention as it is of significant importance to the nation’s youth and future.
“THAT, pursuant to Standing Order 199, this Senate resolves to establish an Ad-hoc Committee to investigate the governance concerns raised by young demonstrators, particularly those of the “Generation Z” cohort, and the circumstances leading to the recent widespread demonstrations,” Karungo said.
Senator Karungo Proposes a Committee to Adress Gen Z Issues
He added that Gen-Z concerns are of national importance requiring the Senate’s urgent consideration.
“Our nation is currently experiencing widespread demonstrations and picketing primarily involving young citizens categorized as ‘Generation Z’,” he said.
Also Read: Charlene Ruto Breaks Silence on Protests, Shares Advice with Gen Z’s
“As both a people’s representative and a parent of children within this demographic, I have taken time to engage with and understand their concerns.”
He also noted that the Generation Z was not included in the recently concluded national dialogue, which resulted in various proposals currently under legislative consideration.
Karungo stated that for the first time in Kenya’s political history, young people have chosen to actively engage in the country’s governance.
He added that the establishment of such a committee will bring the Generation Z closer to legislative bodies as they address their grievances.
What the Committee will be Tasked With
The Senator highlighted that the Committee to be established will investigate the circumstances leading to the widespread anti-finance bill demonstrations.
Also Read: Why Kenya’s Gen Z is Shaking Up the Anti-Tax Movement
It will also be tasked with examining the emerging generational shifts, challenges, fears, and expectations to inform appropriate policy interventions.
Additionally, it will audit the legal and legislative framework for youth empowerment and involvement in governance and management of state affairs.
The senator’s proposals come after President William Ruto explained that the government is ready to engage with Gen Z to discuss the issues affecting them.
“These youth are our children that we have given birth to and taken care of. I want to congratulate them for stepping forward and engaging in the affairs of their country,” Ruto said.
The President said the government is concerned about the issues affecting the youth and will engage them in efforts to build a greater nation.
“We are going to engage the youth and have conversations so that we can identify your issues,” Ruto added.
The Finance Bill 2024, initially presented to parliament in May, has sparked discontent with an increase in an array of taxes and levies for Kenyans.
After the highly publicized #OccupyParliament campaign, Kenyans in their hundreds took to the streets to voice their opposition to the proposed tax hikes in the 2024 Finance Bill.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel for real-time news updates!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaB3k54HltYFiQ1f2i2C
