Political analysts are warning against dismissing the rising influence of Kenya’s youthful leaders in politics, embodied by a movement increasingly dubbed the “Third Force.”
This phenomenon, driven by young politicians directly engaging the “Gen Z” demographic, is seen as a potent factor shaping the nation’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political commentator Michael Aguanda while speaking on TV47 argues that this movement, spearheaded by figures like ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, represents a tangible shift.
He points to visible demonstrations of their sway, particularly among young Kenyans.
“When Babu Owino asks people to go to the streets, they follow,” Aguanda stated, highlighting Owino’s mobilizing power as indicative of a broader youth sentiment that these leaders channel.
Aguanda contends that the true “Third Force” isn’t necessarily the individual politicians alone, but the energized “Gen Z movement” they appeal to.
He stresses that dismissing figures like Sifuna, Owino, and Amisi means overlooking the significant demographic bloc they resonate with.
However, the movement’s leadership faces skepticism regarding its coherence and motives. Political commentator Derek Bett expressed significant doubts, questioning the underlying ideology of these emerging leaders and criticizing perceived inconsistencies.
“Edwin Sifuna has been speaking from both sides of his mouth,” Bett asserted, suggesting Sifuna’s actions appear driven more by personal political interests than a clear, unified agenda.
Bett also argues that for such leaders to gain broader credibility and effectively lead a genuine “Third Force,” they must demonstrate clear ideological positioning.
“If Sifuna wants to be a leader, he needs to be clear about whether he is in the opposition or supporting the government,” Bett argued.
Despite the internal critiques of its current figureheads, the central message emerging from the commentary is one of caution to the political establishment, the force of Kenya’s youth, mobilized and seeking new avenues for representation, is real and potent.
Aguanda’s analysis underscores that the support demonstrated by these young politicians is a barometer of deeper generational frustrations and aspirations. Whether this “Third Force” coalesces around a specific party, remains a loose movement, or finds new champions, the energy it represents is a critical factor.
The commentators agree that ignoring or underestimating this youth-driven impulse regardless of current questions about its leadership structure is a strategic mistake for any political actor eyeing the 2027 elections.
The ability to mobilize young voters and channel their demands is rapidly becoming a decisive element in Kenyan politics, making the “Third Force,” embodied by the Gen Z movement, a factor that demands serious attention.
