NAIROBI, Kenya- There is growing unrest in Mt Kenya, and it’s no longer quiet.
Beneath the region’s rolling hills and sprawling farmlands, a political shift is taking shape — one which political analysts and governance experts say is rooted in betrayal, power struggles, and a community that feels shortchanged.
For decades, Mt Kenya has held a firm grip on national politics, often backing the winning side. But as the country edges closer to the 2027 General Election, that loyalty is no longer guaranteed.
According to experts, the region is preparing to renegotiate its place at the table — on its terms.
“The anger in Mt. Kenya over betrayal is what will shape the 2027 election,” said political scholar Prof. Peter Kagwanja, speaking during a televised panel on Tuesday morning.
The sense of betrayal, he explained, is driving support for former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has cast himself as the region’s defender in a government many feel has overlooked them.
“Gachagua and his allies are going to emerge as a major political bloc,” Kagwanja added.
“Don’t be surprised if there’s a coalition between Gachagua and Ruto… the UDA party is already shrinking in Mt Kenya.”
It’s a notable shift. In 2022, the region delivered a sizeable vote to President William Ruto, helping secure his win.
But three years in, cracks are showing. Local leaders are increasingly vocal about being sidelined. Campaign promises remain unfulfilled. What was once a firm alliance is now shaky.
-A Region on Edge-
While past political shifts in Mt Kenya have been strategic and quiet, what’s happening now feels more emotional.
The region’s support is not just wavering — it’s actively questioning whether it still matters in national politics.
Kagwanja insists what’s being labeled as tribal agitation is actually frustration.
“This isn’t tribalism. It’s anger. The people of Mt Kenya have a right to feel betrayed,” he said.
There’s also growing talk that Gachagua, long criticized for his style, may emerge stronger — not because of popularity alone, but because of what he represents: defiance, identity, and unfinished business.
-Enter Gen Z: A Different Kind of Disruption-
While Mt Kenya reconsiders its alliances, another force is emerging nationwide — Kenya’s youngest voters.
With over 70% of the population under 35, and many first-time voters expected in 2027, the influence of Gen Z is already being felt.
They’ve mobilized around justice, joblessness, and accountability — and have little patience for tribal politics.
“Gen Z gives us hope,” said political analyst Ahmed Hashi. “Class awareness is growing stronger than ethnic identity. They are the ones who will transform this country.”
But the optimism comes with caution. Legal expert Paul Mwangi warned that changing the system will take more than values-based voting.
“Tribalism won’t just disappear,” he said. “Even if young people vote beyond tribe, it’s still embedded in our institutions, our language, and how we engage politically. It takes effort to undo.”
-Kenya’s Unfinished Work-
The panel agreed that ethnic identity is not the problem — how it’s used is.
“Most of our political parties are formed around ethnic groups,” said Senator Okong’o Omogeni.
“Then they build alliances based on numbers. We can’t single out one leader for ethnic mobilization — it’s happening across the board.”
Omogeni warned that Kenya must learn from other African countries, like Nigeria, where ethnic tensions have led to violence and instability.
Still, there was consensus that the country must move forward — without erasing its diversity.
“Let’s not pretend we can create a Kenya without tribes,” Kagwanja said. “Ethnic identity is part of who we are — but it must not come at the expense of equality.”
Prof. Peter Kagwanja: Gen Z are not teaching us anything new, they are simply reminding us of who we truly are. First, we are a nation founded on justice and morality. Second, we are made up of many communities, so we must remain united and reject tribalism. Third, we must uphold
