Since last year’s Gen Z protests, young Kenyans have been hopeful about breaking away from the status quo leadership they accuse of perpetuating oppression and often following the same colonial-era playbook. Most of them seem to have pinned their hopes on figures like former Chief Justice David Maraga and Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, both perceived as clean, principled, and deeply connected to youth activism.
Maraga’s reputation for zero corruption cases and Omtatah’s consistent presence alongside youth movements inspire confidence. Yet, the burning question remains: Is that enough?
Kenya’s political landscape is crowded and very competitive. The big players are already in motion: President William Ruto is aiming for a second term in 2027, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua with his new DCP party backed up with ground mobilization and spilling the tea in juicy interviews.
Even seasoned players like former CS Fred Matiangi, who, immediately after landing from the US, went straight to his home region to mark his territory. The young stars like Morara Kebaso, who despite criticism and being labeled a ‘beggar’ on social media for his fundraising efforts, pushes is pushing hard with his inject party.
While these politicians are actively engaging voters on the ground with rallies, alliances, and party launches, the Maraga-Omtatah duo remain calm, possibly waiting for the official campaign period to officially jump in. This approach has triggered debate. Kiragu, a Twitter user, lamented, “People are forming coalitions while our preferred candidates are just chilling.”
On the other hand, legal experts and constitutionalists on Twitter caution that campaigning outside the official period might be unconstitutional. Implying that Maraga and Omtatah’s patience could be a sign of respect for the law.
The tension between youth activists online reflects a wide political truth: Votes are won on the ground, not just on social media. While social media influencers rally support, many argue that real political power requires boots on the ground, coalitions, and mobilization of voting blocks.
Some youth now question if Maraga and Omtatah have the political muscle to truly represent them, especially in the face of seasoned politicians and the complex realities of Kenyan electoral politics.
