President Ruto appeared to downplay protest calls for his resignation, for reasons including a bloated budget, mega corruption, excessive taxation, and the lack of proper basic services.
The president also responded to concerns about government officials distributing millions of shillings in church harambees and living lavish lifestyles.
The president defended his decision to form a multi-sectoral forum to engage young people but noted that it was only a suggestion.
Records show that at least 39 people were taken from various locations by people believed to be police officers, held for hours for unknown reasons, and released without formal charges or court appearances.
Critics have warned the youth against participating in the discussions, citing past grievances brought before the government that have remained unaddressed.
The leaders expressed concern over conflicting statements from the Executive branch regarding the protests and their aftermath.
Human rights organisations have documented three deaths during the protests in Mombasa, two from gunshot wounds and one from teargas inhalation.
Tax hikes that led to the unprecedented youth-led protests were just a trigger for many to vent their anger against a wasteful government.
They criticised Gachagua for allegedly failing to advise President Ruto as his Principal Assistant on measures that should have been taken to prevent the loss of lives during the anti-tax protests.
So determined are Gen Z protesters that traditional political players are grappling to catch the attention of the youngsters
Following the success of the protests, with President William Ruto withdrawing the bill, they are now protesting against corruption in governance and have created tech tools such as Corrupt Politicians GPT and SHIF GPT.
Kenya is one of the few countries in Africa that are still considered a stable partner in Europe and the USA.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that Ruto's decision to withdraw the bill "contributes to the reduction of the tensions and should help create an environment that is conducive to dialogue."
Out of these, 23 of the deaths were recorded between 7 am and 6 pm across the county while 30 others were recorded at night in the Githurai area.
Some of the businesses along Tom Mboya Street, Ronald Ngala, Moi Avenue and even Luthuli Avenue, remain closed, including several major supermarkets, leaving shoppers to seek alternatives.
Amidst the ongoing turmoil in the country, Parliament has introduced a motion to advance and extend the upcoming recess, initially scheduled for July 12-24.
The organisers of the Global Peace Leadership Conference 2024 on Wednesday morning confirmed President William Ruto would not be in attendance.
AUC Chair Moussa Faki Mahamat also shared his "deep concern over the outbreaks of violence following public protests, which has resulted in loss of life and property damage," after police fired live rounds at protestors.
The country is bracing itself for another fresh round of protests as the anti-Finance Bill demonstrations continue to gain momentum.
