President William Ruto has called on the media to cover the ongoing anti-government demonstrations responsibly.
Media outlets have been on the spot for amplifying the youth-led protests because of how they cover the occurrences.
Speaking in Bomet on Sunday, July 21, Ruto, without mentioning names, said it was irresponsible for media houses to celebrate the destruction of properties during the demonstrations.
“I want to request the media to report responsibly. Reporting, celebrating and encouraging violence, destruction of property, anarchy, and mayhem is irresponsible,” Ruto said while addressing a congregation at Chebango AGC church in Sotik.
While insisting that it is the responsibility of every Kenyan to protect the country, Ruto said that should Kenya burn due to the protests, the media will equally suffer.
“If the country goes in the wrong direction, there will be nothing to report. If Kenya burns, there will be nowhere to report from. So we must all act responsibly,” Ruto added.
Further, the president called out Gen Z for thwarting his efforts to end the anti-government protests.
Ruto said he had extended an invitation to the agitated group for dialogue to chat the way forward, but they have refused to attend, citing their anonymity and amorphous nature.
“Enough is enough. They demanded that I withdraw the Finance Bill 2024, and I did that. I called them for a conversation but they directed me to X Space. I went there, but they fled. Now, I have called for a dialogue, but they have refused, saying that they are faceless and formless,” said Ruto.
The president insisted that democracy cannot be replaced by anarchy and mayhem.