Speaking during an interview on a local radio station on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, Tuju expressed concern over what he described as a growing pool of frustrated young people who are increasingly vulnerable to manipulation, particularly during periods of political tension.
According to Tuju, unemployment remains the single biggest driver of insecurity among the youth, arguing that lack of opportunity leaves many exposed to exploitation and survival-driven actions.
“I don’t know any young person who has a job, has shelter and is planning to start a family who is a goon. It is those without opportunities who are pushed into such situations,” he said.
He cautioned that the country is gradually creating conditions that could turn its youthful population into a source of instability rather than a development asset if the situation is not urgently addressed.
Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) paints a worrying picture, with youth unemployment rates remaining persistently high. The 2025 Economic Survey shows that unemployment stands at 16.8 per cent among individuals aged 20–24 and 11.1 per cent among those aged 15–19. Overall, about 11 to 12 per cent of young people actively seeking jobs remain unemployed.
The report further indicates that more than 80 per cent of new entrants into the labour market are absorbed into the informal sector, while a significant proportion of young people remain underemployed or outside formal work structures altogether. Each year, an estimated 800,000 youth join the job market, increasing pressure on an already strained economy.
Tuju linked the current crisis partly to past policy decisions, particularly rapid population growth experienced in the 1980s, which he said has contributed to the mismatch between job creation and labour supply.
Beyond unemployment, the former Cabinet Secretary also criticised what he termed as rampant corruption and the conspicuous display of wealth by some leaders, warning that such behaviour is fuelling public anger and eroding trust in institutions.
“People can tolerate some level of corruption, but when it is accompanied by open displays of opulence—showing off helicopters and lavish lifestyles—it becomes difficult for citizens to accept,” he said.
He argued that the widening gap between political leaders and ordinary citizens is deepening resentment, creating one of the most dangerous fault lines in society.
Tuju also raised concerns about increasing political intolerance, noting that divisions based on political affiliations are weakening social cohesion and pitting citizens against one another.
“You find neighbours turning against each other because of political choices, yet everyone is simply exercising their democratic right,” he observed.
He concluded by warning that unless Kenya decisively tackles unemployment, inequality and corruption, the consequences could be far-reaching, with growing discontent among the youth potentially triggering broader social and political instability.
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