Popular social media influencer Osama Otero is facing backlash from a section of Kenyans after hosting President William Ruto on his X Space. Initially, Otero had urged X users to boycott Ruto's Space and instead join his parallel engagement on the same platform.
However, after several failed attempts to launch Ruto's Space, the President joined Otero's Space along with State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohammed.
Many Kenyans on X criticized Otero, accusing him of betrayal. Users expressed their disappointment and frustration, questioning why Otero did not maintain his parallel space as planned. Some notable comments included sentiments of feeling let down and betrayed by Otero.
In response, Otero defended his actions, explaining that he hosted the President because X users had expressed a preference for this arrangement. He emphasized that he was fulfilling their wishes by allowing the President to join his Space.
Did you read this?
The incident drew the attention of Ezekiel Mutua, CEO of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya, who urged Gen Z to remain united. Mutua highlighted the achievements of the youth when they work together and encouraged them to continue planning better strategies.
He cautioned against letting anger and discontent undermine their progress and stressed the importance of maintaining momentum despite challenges.
President Ruto engaged with the young generation on X Space, addressing pressing questions from the speakers. He explained his decision to withdraw the Finance Bill, 2024, stating that he did so because Kenyans expressed their opposition to it. Ruto clarified that the bill was misrepresented with falsehoods and propaganda, denying claims of increased land rates and rents, as well as proposed taxes on cancer patients.
He mentioned that the Finance Bill included provisions to support cancer, diabetes, and hypertension patients under the Universal Health Programme.
The Gen Z demographic formed the majority of demonstrators who protested against the Finance Bill. Succumbing to public pressure, President Ruto declined to sign the bill into law and asked Parliament to delete all contentious clauses.
