Osoro Calls for Inclusive Dialogue and Youth-Centered Reforms Ahead of National Prayer Breakfast

By Ayubu John Afrimedia news 

National Assembly Majority Whip Silvanus Osoro has called for inclusive national dialogue and equitable policies that address the concerns of ordinary Kenyans, saying the country must embrace conversations that promote unity, accountability, and shared progress.

Speaking during a national conversation ahead of the 20th National Prayer Breakfast in Nairobi, Osoro said millions of Kenyans were raising their voices in hope and expectation for a better country where dignity is protected, opportunities are accessible, and development is shared fairly across communities and generations.

Osoro noted that many Kenyans, including unemployed graduates, entrepreneurs, farmers, teachers, and parents, were demanding reforms that strengthen governance, economic justice, and public trust in institutions.

“As leaders, our responsibility is not simply to speak on behalf of the people, but to genuinely listen to them,” Osoro said, quoting James 1:19 which urges people to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.”

He warned that society was becoming increasingly polarized, with public discourse often driven by reaction rather than understanding, adding that meaningful nation-building can only be achieved through honest conversations rooted in empathy, respect, and shared purpose.

The lawmaker praised the ongoing national conversations for bringing together leaders from Parliament, constitutional commissions, the private sector, faith communities, civil society, and the legal fraternity to discuss Kenya’s future collectively.

Osoro particularly welcomed the active participation of Gen Z and millennial generations, saying young people were playing a critical role in pushing institutions to become more transparent, accountable, and responsive.

“This should not be viewed as a threat. It should be embraced as an opportunity,” he said while quoting former South African President Nelson Mandela, who once said young people must be at the forefront of change and innovation.

He added that Parliament remains committed to representing the voices and aspirations of Kenyans through meaningful legislation and policy reforms, stressing that modern leadership requires humility, compassion, and a willingness to listen even during uncomfortable conversations.

Osoro also urged Kenyans to choose dialogue over hostility and work together in building bridges across generations, communities, and institutions for the sake of national unity and sustainable development.

In his closing remarks, he invoked the words of the late Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai, saying nation-building is a collective responsibility that depends on the small actions of every citizen.