President William Ruto’s public apology to Kenyan youth during the annual National Prayer Day has been met with criticism from several political leaders, with Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo calling it insufficient and dismissive of the real suffering on the ground.
Senator Maanzo has challenged the president’s sincerity, suggesting that rather than making symbolic gestures in far-off venues, Ruto should demonstrate remorse by visiting the victims of police brutality admitted at Kenyatta National Hospital.
Maanzo insists that an authentic response must involve more than just words it should come with direct engagement and tangible support for those affected by the government’s actions, especially the young protesters injured during recent demonstrations.
According to Maanzo, President Ruto’s decision to travel to Kisumu shortly after issuing the apology sends the wrong message to Kenyans still nursing physical and emotional wounds.
The senator argued that bypassing the victims and choosing a political tour instead reflects misplaced priorities.
He urged the president to visit the hospitalized youth, offer a face-to-face apology, and take responsibility by covering their medical expenses.
The outcry follows weeks of tension between young citizens and the government, especially over issues related to economic hardship, increased taxation, and growing public frustration with the cost of living.
In the recent past, several young demonstrators sustained injuries during confrontations with security forces. Many of these victims remain admitted at Kenyatta National Hospital, some battling life-altering conditions.
Maanzo believes that settling their medical bills and offering support would be a more meaningful demonstration of leadership than a generic prayer speech.
He maintains that the government cannot simply move past these incidents without meaningful engagement with those affected.
By Kenyans