NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya’s political landscape is ablaze with reactions following former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s rallying cry for Gen Z to continue fighting for their rights.
His provocative message, delivered amid the swearing-in of three of his close allies into powerful Cabinet positions, has reignited debates over his role in the so-called “Gen Z Revolution.”
The movement, which began with street protests last June, saw over 60 young lives tragically lost in confrontations with authorities.
Armed only with flags and bottles of water, these protests marked a generational uprising against poor governance, corruption, and economic exclusion.
The unrest has since shifted to social media, where Gen Z continues to push for accountability with equal fervor, amidst abductions of those with big influence.
In December last year, several youths were abducted for criticizing the government including a cartoonist.
Some have since been released while others are still missing.
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has linked the National Intelligence Service to the abductions- echoing sentiments raised by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The timing of Kenyatta’s remarks has raised eyebrows. Just as his former allies, including Mutahi Kagwe and Lee Kinyanjui, assume high-profile roles in the current administration, observers say he appears to be fanning the flames of dissent.
Critics allege his encouragement of the Gen Z cause is a veiled attempt to undermine the government, possibly to settle political scores or reclaim influence.
You want more… I see … what do we get ? Or our numbers don’t count? Sasa pia sisi lazima tuzae
State bloggers were quick to react, accusing Kenyatta of orchestrating the protests from behind the scenes.
“This is not about rights—it’s about chaos,” read one post.
Others have argued that his alignment with the youth movement is ironic, given his administration’s own challenges in addressing similar issues during his presidency.
Supporters, however, view Kenyatta’s message as a bold acknowledgment of the systemic challenges young people face. His call for his daughter, Ngina Kenyatta, to join the movement has particularly resonated with some, symbolizing his willingness to bridge Kenya’s generational divide.
Financier of Gen-Z and the Itungati nonsense is coming out. He is in govt through his people but still tries to destabilise the government. The same Uhuru called Baba two weeks ago and demanded that Baba condemns abductions while Uhuru wants benefits form Ruto’s govt. What…
The entry of Kenyatta’s allies into key positions adds yet another layer to this unfolding drama.
While their appointments reflect the political realignments shaping Kenya’s governance, they also intensify scrutiny over Kenyatta’s true intentions.
Can his allies effect change from within the system, or do they represent a continuation of the status quo Gen Z is fighting against?
Meanwhile, the Gen Z Revolution continues to evolve.
With its roots in street protests and its growing dominance on social media, this youth-driven movement is challenging Kenya’s political elite in unprecedented ways.
Kenyatta’s endorsement has only amplified its voice.
