President William Ruto has acknowledged public frustration over the high cost of living, taxation and unemployment, saying Kenyans retain the right to challenge government decisions even after elections.
Speaking during his Mashujaa Day address in Eldoret, Ruto said young people had taken to the streets to express dissatisfaction with economic conditions and what they consider the slow pace of change.
“Their protests remind us that the authority to govern cannot make people remain silent after an election,” Ruto said.
The President added that citizens had a constitutional and democratic right to question the government, oppose its decisions and demand better services.
“Citizens have the right to question their government, challenge its decisions and demand better services,” he said.
Ruto acknowledged that the government’s efforts to fulfil its campaign promises had not always met public expectations, stressing the need for leaders to listen to citizens and take responsibility for their commitments.
“We must listen, respond and accept accountability for the promises we made,” he said.
The remarks come as the country continues to debate taxation, employment opportunities and the affordability of basic goods and services.
