NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto’s broad-based government enjoys stronger support among Kenya’s youth, according to the latest Infotrak poll, outperforming the Rigathi Gachagua-led United Opposition among voters aged 18 to 26.
The survey indicates that 24pc of Gen Z back the broad-based government, compared to 15pc for the United Opposition.
Among elders aged 55 and above, the government commands 31pc support, while the opposition attracts 17pc.
The poll also highlights gender differences in political preferences. Men support the government at 35pc, compared to 22pc for the opposition.
Regional trends reveal contrasting support bases. The opposition enjoys a stronghold in Central Kenya with 39pc support, while the government leads in North Eastern (88pc), Rift Valley (39pc), and Nyanza (38pc) regions.
Political analysts say the findings indicate a divided political landscape in Kenya, with youth and regional loyalties shaping the 2027 electoral dynamics.
The apparent youth support for the government comes against the backdrop of devastating Gen Z‑led protests that erupted in 2024 and continued into 2025 over economic hardship, high cost of living, police brutality, and perceptions of government unresponsiveness.
Demonstrations sparked by the contentious Finance Bill and other grievances drew tens of thousands of young people onto the streets, with dozens killed and hundreds injured in clashes with security forces during some of the largest protests in recent memory.
For many observers, the poll’s findings are striking since the very cohort that bore the brunt of violent confrontations with law enforcement and clamoured for accountability now shows greater support for the ruling government than for the principal opposition coalition.
Analysts say this may reflect youth disillusionment with protest politics, economic anxieties, or shifting allegiances as Kenyans look ahead to the 2027 General Election.
