Political Issues in Kenya
Generation Z (Genzee) demonstrating. (Photo/ Courtesy)
By Barasa Frickson
Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com
Kenya’s political landscape has undergone significant transformations in recent years, marked by a series of events that have both challenged and reshaped the nation’s democratic fabric.
From contentious legislative proposals to unprecedented civil unrest, the country’s journey reflects the complexities inherent in balancing governance, economic imperatives, and the aspirations of a youthful population.
Finance Bill Protests
In mid-2024, the Kenyan government introduced the Finance Bill 2024, aiming to increase taxes on essential commodities to address fiscal deficits.
The bill proposed a 16% tax on goods and services for specialized hospitals and raised import taxes from 2.5% to 3%. These measures were perceived by many as exacerbating the already high cost of living, leading to widespread discontent.
The situation escalated dramatically on June 25, 2024, when thousands of protesters stormed the Parliament Building in Nairobi.
The unrest resulted in the tragic loss of 19 lives in the capital and injuries to over 200 individuals.
In response to the public outcry and the violent turn of events, President William Ruto vetoed the bill the following day, underscoring the profound impact of public sentiment on legislative processes.
Rise of GenZ
A notable dimension of these protests was the prominent role played by Kenya’s Generation Z. Tech-savvy and socially conscious, these young activists harnessed the power of social media platforms to mobilize, educate, and amplify their grievances.
Their innovative approaches not only galvanized national attention but also signaled a shift in the traditional modes of political engagement.
This generation’s willingness to confront systemic issues, from economic policies to social injustices, reflects a broader global trend of youth-led movements challenging entrenched power structures.
Government’s Strategy
In an effort to address domestic unemployment and stimulate economic growth through remittances, the Kenyan government embarked on an ambitious initiative to send workers abroad.
Agreements were established with countries like Germany and Denmark, aiming to deploy Kenyan workers to fill labor shortages overseas.
While this strategy has the potential to alleviate local unemployment and bring in foreign currency, it has also sparked debates about the risks of brain drain and the ethics of encouraging emigration as a solution to domestic economic challenges.
Legal challenges
Kenya’s positioning as a hub for international business process outsourcing faced challenges with lawsuits alleging human rights abuses in Nairobi-based content moderation facilities contracted by global tech companies.
These legal battles have drawn international attention, highlighting the tension between attracting foreign investment and upholding labor rights.
President Ruto’s support for legislative measures to protect outsourcing companies from certain legal liabilities has been met with criticism from labor rights activists, reflecting the delicate balance between economic development and social justice.
Corruption Allegations
The Kenyan government’s plans to collaborate with international conglomerates for infrastructure development encountered setbacks due to corruption allegations.
Notably, proposed deals with India’s Adani Group, including the management of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, were canceled following bribery charges against the company’s leadership.
This development underscores the challenges Kenya faces in pursuing infrastructural modernization while ensuring transparency and accountability in its dealings with foreign investors.
Political Alliances
In March 2025, a political pact between President Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance and the main opposition party, the Orange Democratic Movement led by Raila Odinga, was announced.
Framed as a collaboration on critical government policies to foster national development, the agreement has been met with skepticism.
Critics argue that such alliances may erode the essential checks and balances provided by a robust opposition, potentially stifling democratic discourse.
This development raises pertinent questions about the nature of political cooperation and its implications for Kenya’s democratic health.
Tapestry of challenges and opportunities
The nation’s experiences underscore the importance of responsive governance that aligns with the aspirations of its populace, particularly its youth.
As Kenya navigates its path forward, the interplay between economic policies, social justice, and democratic principles will remain central to its journey toward sustainable development and political stability.
