Editor’s Comments
Ian Njoroge is in trouble after he was captured in a viral video assaulting a police officer in Nairobi.
A man who would qualify to be his father, some have argued. And with such, the say the 19 year-old “is a cursed boy.”
Also in a subsequent video after his arrest, Njoroge told police officers who were interrogating him that this was his first time assaulting a law enforcer.
Why? He claimed the officer had asked for “a lot of money” as a bribe. In the video, he does not explain whether he had been found in a traffic offense or what was the money for.
On social media, an interesting line of argument has however emerged.
While the act of violence is inexcusable, a section of Kenyans, mostly on X -formerly Twitter, said this incident highlights the complex interplay between generational identity and societal issues such as corruption.
Gen Z, those born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, are often characterized by their tech-savviness, boldness, and a strong sense of justice.
They have grown up in a digital age where information is at their fingertips, and social media has amplified their voices. This generation has witnessed the power of collective action, seeing movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter gain global traction and effect change.
The truth is, unlike previous generations, Gen Z is less likely to accept the status quo.
They question authority and demand transparency, driven by a belief that they can make a difference. This assertiveness can sometimes lead to confrontations, especially in environments where corruption and abuse of power are prevalent.
In Kenya, bribery and corruption are deeply ingrained issues. The Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index consistently ranks Kenya as one of the more corrupt countries in the world.
For many, bribery is seen as a necessary evil to navigate daily life. However, for Gen Z, raised on ideals of fairness and accountability, such practices are intolerable.
The altercation between the 19-year-old and the police officer is a microcosm of a broader generational clash.
The young man’s actions, while extreme, some argue that they were fueled by frustration and a refusal to participate in a corrupt system.
Does this in any way reflect a growing impatience among the youth, who are unwilling to tolerate the injustices their predecessors endured silently? Maybe yes, maybe no.
Gen Z’s exposure to global narratives about rights and justice makes them less willing to compromise their principles.
Does Being Gen Z Lead to Such Actions?
While generational traits can influence behavior, it’s essential to understand that actions like the one in Nairobi are not solely defined by age.
The broader socio-political context plays a significant role. Kenya’s youth, including Gen Z, are navigating a landscape where economic opportunities are limited, and corruption is rampant.
These pressures can push individuals to act out in ways they believe will lead to justice or change.
Moreover, Gen Z’s adeptness with technology means they are more informed about their rights and the wrongdoings of those in power.
This awareness, combined with a lack of fear in challenging authority, makes them more likely to confront corruption head-on. However, this boldness must be channeled constructively to avoid incidents of violence.
While the actions of the 19-year-old are not to be condoned, they do signal a need for a different approach to dealing with corruption.
Authorities and institutions must recognize the legitimate grievances of the youth and engage with them constructively. Providing platforms for dialogue, ensuring accountability, and implementing transparent practices are crucial steps.
For Gen Z, the challenge is to balance their drive for justice with non-violent methods of advocacy.
