If these protests were mainly organised and executed by Gen Z, then the traditional media was simply highlighting content already on social media. I'd say the coverage of the protests is what emboldened more youths to participate rather than setting it up.
I hate to say it, but if he handles this situation well(I have no idea how, but he's a better politician than me) he might have 2027 secured. People love a good redemption arc. Saul to Paul.
He is part of the ruling class, what Gen Z are doing is completely rejecting his bread and butter, tribal politics that are based on sympathy. He has to defend Ruto or go down with him.