The recent protests in Kenya signal the latest stage of a revolution that has been unfolding for over 40 years. Fueled by anger over government corruption and neglect of their needs, a new generation of Kenyan youths has taken to the streets in defiance of the state’s oppressive tactics. These young activists are rejecting the traditional political rituals of their parents in favor of more effective modes of engagement with governance between elections.
The current wave of protests is reminiscent of the 80s and 90s when Kenya’s parents rejected the rules of participation set by the independence generation. They organized mass actions to demand political reform and leveraged global changes to create powerful coalitions outside of the state. By the early 2000s, their movement had transformed Kenya’s politics, leading to increased freedom, political competition, and economic growth. However, many activists later aligned with the state, undermining accountability and reigniting corruption.
The youth today have grown up in a world shaped by their parents’ activism but are focused on the future. They are using digital technologies and social media to organize and promote their political agenda, frustrating the duplicitous regime of President William Ruto. Despite Ruto’s attempts to engage with the protesters, the police force has resorted to violence and intimidation in an effort to suppress the movement. However, the youth’s decentralized and egalitarian approach makes them less susceptible to traditional tactics of control.
The young activists have rejected politicians’ attempts to co-opt their movement and are using online platforms to plan protests, fundraisers, and medical aid for injured comrades. They are challenging the existing power structures and are less interested in traditional frameworks of manipulation used by journalists and politicians. As the older generation struggles to catch up, the youth are taking the lead in shaping the future of Kenya. This shift in leadership signifies a new era in Kenyan politics, where the voices of the youth are driving change and shaping the country’s destiny.
