Gen Z Activism

The Gen Z activists who initially took to Kenya’s streets with idealism, intelligence, and a demand for systemic change now appear to have lost their way. What began as a principled, cross-tribal movement against the 2023 Finance Bill has devolved into a fractured, self-serving spectacle. The “Wakora Gen Z” we see today—a term I use to describe this new wave—are increasingly defined by the very vices they once condemned: tribalism, greed, and a dictatorial mindset that rivals the political elites they claim to oppose. Unlike their predecessors, who channeled grassroots energy into mainstream political reform, these new actors risk becoming pawns in a game far removed from their original vision.

THE RISE AND FALL OF A MOVEMENT

The early Gen Z protests were marked by unity and purpose. Their demands for accountability, economic justice, and an end to state violence resonated nationwide. Yet, as the movement gained momentum, it was infiltrated by opportunists. These “fake Gen Z” factions, often tribal loyalists masquerading as revolutionaries, diluted the cause. Their rhetoric shifted from policy-based critiques to hollow slogans like “Ruto Must Go,” devoid of actionable solutions or pragmatic leadership. Worse, they began replicating the tribal politics they once decried. Their support now seems confined to ethnic allegiances, mirroring the “hustler vs. dynasty” polarization they previously rejected—only without the symbolic wheelbarrows or yellow shirts. 

RAILA’S MASTERCLASS IN STRATEGIC POLITICS 

Under the “Mt Kenya warning,” Deputy President Gachagua’s critique of resource redistribution under the Uhuru-Raila handshake inadvertently underscores Raila Odinga’s political genius. Unlike the rigid idealism of today’s Wakora Gen Z, Raila exemplifies pragmatism. He collaborates with both allies and adversaries to advance his agenda, even if it means losing elections in the short term. His ability to infiltrate power structures—whether through coalition-building, backroom negotiations, or joining government—ensures he delivers tangible benefits to his supporters. 

 For instance, his alliance with Uhuru Kenyatta unlocked unprecedented resources for Nyanza, a region historically starved of development and punished for its opposition loyalties. Uhuru, dubbed “the first Luo President” by critics, channeled infrastructure projects, funds, and political goodwill to Nyanza—a stark departure from past leaders who weaponized state resources, sending “body bags” instead of development to dissenters. 

 Raila’s pragmatism contrasts sharply with the Wakora Gen Z, who reject nuance in favor of performative radicalism. While they chant “Ruto Must Go,” Raila works within imperfect systems to extract concessions. His endurance lies not in electoral victories but in his Trojan Horse strategy: losing battles to win wars. This flexibility has kept him relevant for decades, whereas today’s loudest Gen Z factions risk irrelevance by prioritizing chaos over coalition-building. 

THE ORIGINAL GEN Z VS. THE WAKORA HIJACKERS 

It is critical to distinguish the original Gen Z activists—still committed to reasoned, inclusive, and justice-driven politics—from the Wakora usurpers who have hijacked their movement. The latter are tribalist bullies, gaslighting opponents and executing punitive campaigns without trial. Their narrative is now plagued by greed, with factions constantly labeling one another “traitors” while demanding vain praise for performative actions. They hurl wild, evidence-free accusations at political opponents and incite mob justice against any Gen Zee who dares question their tactics or seek clarity. 

 Chaotic and Idi Amin-like in their authoritarianism, they thrive on silencing dissent, shutting down nuanced debates, and weaponizing social media to smear critics. Their tactics mirror the very dictatorship they claim to oppose: no room for varying opinions, no forgiveness for perceived disloyalty, and no vision beyond vengeful sloganeering. 

 These Wakora factions, now joining mainstream political movements, are motivated by self-interest. They “eat” (a colloquial Kenyan term for profiteering) and abandon their comrades, trading principles for proximity to power. Meanwhile, the quieter, original Gen Z—intelligent, strategic, and morally anchored—are sidelined. Their inclusive demands for systemic reform are drowned out by the Wakora’s tribalist noise and performative rage. 

SELECTIVE OUTRAGE AND HYPOCRISY 

While rightly condemning the tragic deaths of over 60 protesters during the 2024 Finance Bill demonstrations, the Wakora Gen Z conspicuously ignore the 120 lives reportedly lost during the 2023 Maandamano protests, as documented in petitions by the Azimio coalition, Safina Party, and human rights groups. Not a single life should have been lost in either protest—whether in 2023 or 2024. Kenya’s democratic progress cannot be reduced to the activism of 2024 alone. The struggle for justice and accountability stretches back decades: from the pre-independence sacrifices of leaders like Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Tom Mboya, Bildad Kaggia, Achieng’ Oneko, Pio Gama Pinto, and Dedan Kimathi, to the post-independence defiance of JM Kariuki, Masinde Muliro, and others who resisted dictatorship. 

 The contributions of later reformers—Paul Muite, Martha Karua, Raila Odinga, James Orengo, Mukhisa Kituyi, Charity Ngilu, Gitobu Imanyara, and Kijana Wamalwa—cannot be erased by the myopic narratives of today’s political novices. Kenya’s democratic dividends were earned through relentless action, protest, and sacrifice across generations. 

RECLAIMING THE PROMISE

The original Gen Z movement held immense potential. Its decline into tribalism and chaos is not inevitable but a consequence of poor leadership and infiltration. To avoid the fate of past radicals, today’s youth must recenter their demands on tangible policies, not personalities. They must reject tribal demagoguery, hold all leaders accountable—including themselves—and rebuild bridges across Kenya’s fractured political landscape. 

 Raila’s legacy teaches us that power is not always won at the ballot; sometimes, it is wielded by those patient enough to work within the system to dismantle it. Gen Z must choose: Will they be remembered as pragmatic reformers or as the Wakora who ate their future? 

Gem Musings is a political and public affairs analyst with expertise in global politics, political communication, and conflict studies.