The Vatican’s envoy to Kenya, Archbishop Hubertus van Megen, has called on the Kenyan government to open dialogue with the country’s youth as a step toward ending the ongoing wave of protests.

Speaking on Saturday during an Education Day celebration at a Catholic Church-sponsored school in Murang’a, Van Megen underscored the need for meaningful engagement between the state and its young population, describing dialogue as the most effective way to restore calm and justice in a democratic society.

“In any mature democracy, both the government and its citizens especially the youth must understand and embrace their roles. Peace and stability are only achievable through mutual understanding,” said Van Megen.

The archbishop urged the state to listen attentively to young people's grievances, while at the same time encouraging the youth to be open to constructive conversation.

“We must calm the tensions that have escalated in recent protests. The government should give an ear to the youth, and likewise, the youth should be willing to listen dialogue is always a two-way street,” he said.

While acknowledging the constitutional right to peaceful protest, Van Megen warned against violence and destruction, urging demonstrators to remain peaceful and responsible.

“Young people have the right to protest, but not to loot, destroy property, or incite violence,” he stated. “Such acts only harm the community and weaken the credibility of the protesters' message.”

He also reminded the government of its responsibility to uphold justice and human dignity, adding: “True peace is rooted in justice. Authorities must serve the people by respecting their rights and freedoms.”

Van Megen noted that the Catholic Church was ready to mediate between the government and youth in pursuit of national reconciliation.

Kenya has witnessed sustained protests over the past two years, primarily driven by disillusioned youth decrying poor leadership, economic strain, extra-judicial killings, and rising unemployment. While earlier demonstrations were peaceful, recent ones have turned violent, resulting in deaths, injuries, and significant property loss.

As the blame game between state officials and opposition leaders continues, various voices, including civil society, religious leaders, and now youth groups are urging the state to change tack and prioritize dialogue.

In Kasipul, Homa Bay County, a youth caucus operating under the banner Youth for Youth echoed the archbishop’s sentiments. The group on Saturday urged the government to directly engage with Generation Z protesters to de-escalate the national standoff.

Speaking during a press briefing at Ombek Health Centre, the group’s chairperson, Calvin Arogo said only honest dialogue could yield long-term solutions to the current political and social crisis.

“There’s potential for mutual understanding between the government and the youth,” said Arogo. “But both sides must approach any conversation with sobriety and a commitment to solutions.”

He also condemned the police for what he termed unjustified use of force on peaceful demonstrators, calling for the prosecution of rogue officers involved in brutality.

“Many of these Gen Z protesters are educated and are raising legitimate concerns,” Arogo noted, adding that unemployment, insecurity, and bad governance were at the heart of the unrest.

The youth group also called on the ODM party to nominate young leaders in the upcoming Kasipul parliamentary by-election. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is expected to announce the vacant seat following the recent death of area MP Ongondo Were.