Michael Ranneberger, who has been accused by a Kenyan government spokesman of trying the mobilize the youth to overthrow the government, said Saturday that empowering the youth will help them not to be manipulated by politicians.

A 2008 report said unemployed youth were behind most of the postelection violence, joining tribal militias and gangs at the behest of politicians fighting for power.

Ranneberger said he is most proud of initiatives he started to empower youth in Kenya during his tenure.

Kenya was plunged into violence after a disputed presidential election late 2007. Over 600,000 people were evicted from their homes during the chaos.