Musician and entrepreneur Esther Akoth, popularly known as Akothee, has written an emotional open letter to President William Ruto, calling for dialogue and unity amid ongoing youth-led protests across the country.
In a social media post shared on Monday, the outspoken artist, often referred to as the “President of Single Mothers”, described herself as “a mother of Gen Zs” and appealed to Ruto to listen to the cries of a distressed nation.
“Your Excellency, Kenyans are no longer just crying out for change, they are crying out for safety, for stability, for understanding,” she wrote.
Akothee’s letter, which blends personal reflection with a national plea, struck a chord with many of her followers, especially parents concerned by recent demonstrations led by young people. She acknowledged the emotional weight of the moment: “The streets carry tension. The air is heavy with grief.”
Referencing last year’s protests that saw demonstrators breach Parliament grounds, she suggested the actions of young people were about more than defiance. “Maybe that’s why they tried to enter Parliament, not just to protest, but to be acknowledged,” she wrote.
Known for her candid style, Akothee did not assign blame, instead advocating for “shared responsibility” and national healing.
“Mr. President, we cannot preach war and at the same time ask the world to come and visit us in peace. We cannot brand Kenya as a tourist destination when the world sees burning streets and bleeding youth. Tourism is struggling, the economy is hurting, and the hope of our people is slowly fading,” she said.
“Two wrongs don’t make a right,” she added. “Violence, from either side, only deepens the wounds.”
In her appeal, Akothee proposed a formal platform for dialogue, urging the President to open the doors of State House for conversations led by mothers, parents, and the youth.
“Give us a date at State House, first as mothers, then as parents, then with the youth,” she said. “Open the door. Let us reason together.”
Her message, shared widely online, has been praised for its sincerity and urgency. It adds a prominent voice to the growing public call for constructive engagement and a peaceful path forward for the country.