Sylas Tochim, Director of the Tourism Fund, issued a strong warning to members of Generation Z who want to hold demonstrations at the State House. His statements, which have sparked widespread controversy, highlight the country's mounting tensions over youth-led protests.
Simply try to enter the State House. Sylas Tochim, the director of the Tourism Fund, tells Generation Z, "You will get out of there dead," and warns them not to take their grievances to the State House.
"Omba, utapewa." He asked, "Kwani ukufe na Yesu alikufa kwa dhambi zetu?"
Tochim also advised the youth to look for legal and nonviolent means to express their concerns and achieve their goals. "Umba Utapewa. "Kwani ukufe na Yesu alikufa kwa dhambi zetu?" he asked, underlining his point with a religious allegory. "Ask and you shall receive" is his Swahili expression. Why should you die, since Jesus died to atone for our sins? By stating so, Tochim encouraged the young activists to think twice before resorting to violence, instead opting for confrontation and peaceful lobbying.
Tochim's remarks coincide with an increasing number of youth-led protests spurred by a variety of social, political, and economic concerns. Generation Z is known for their strong sense of social justice and internet expertise, and it has taken the lead in various global movements. However, conflicts have frequently arisen as a result of their strategies and the government's response to these movements.
It appears that Tochim is preaching prudence and common sense. Although he recognises the strength of the youth's voice, he cautions against taking any actions that may result in unnecessary deaths. The youth are expected to be reminded of the worth of life and the futility of dying for a cause that may be accomplished by safer, more practical means by drawing a parallel to Jesus' sacrifice.