Generation Z accuses opposition and commercial activists over infiltrating their youth led agenda for selfish interests
They argued that those participated during yesterday’s commemorative demonstration were not pure Gen Z but commercial activists and hired goons
They have urged fellow youth across the country to register as voters in large numbers to make an informed decision during next general election
NAIROBI, Kenya, June 26 — One Tribe One Nation Initiative Chairperson Antony Karumba has challenged politicians seeking office in the 2027 General Election to stop making unrealistic campaign promises and instead present practical solutions to Kenya’s economic and unemployment challenges.
Speaking on Friday 26th June, a day after yesterday’s Gen Zs planned commemoration for the fallen youths, Karumba said young people, particularly Generation Z, chose to participate for protest in different ways by posting their fallen Gen Zs and on their social media platforms, accusing opposition leaders who accompanied few families and vanished immediately leaving them behind
Karumba, reiterating that such politicians had infiltrated the youth led agenda of June 25th, 2024 and took advantage of their solely fight for better governance and stable economy urging youth to reject vague pledges of creating millions of jobs and instead demand clear, achievable plans from aspiring leaders.
He argued that politicians have for years taken advantage of voters by making grand promises without explaining how they intend to fulfill them.
“We have reached a point where leaders must be practical. It is no longer enough to promise millions of jobs. Kenyans want to know exactly how those jobs will be created,” he said.
Karumba noted that the country’s economic realities require honest discussions, pointing out that government revenue currently stands at about Sh3.8 trillion against a budget of approximately Sh4.82 trillion, leaving a deficit of nearly Sh1 trillion.
He further observed that Kenya’s national debt is estimated at around Sh13 trillion and warned that continued borrowing could see it rise further by the time a new administration takes office after the 2027 elections.
According to him, presidential candidates should clearly explain how they intend to manage the country’s debt burden, finance development, and maintain economic stability instead of relying on campaign slogans.
“The next president will inherit an economy facing significant fiscal challenges. Kenyans deserve to hear practical proposals on how the economy will be managed,” he said.
Karumba also called on Generation Z to play a more active role in shaping the country’s political discourse, saying young people are informed and capable of holding leaders accountable.
He said every Kenyan family has young people who understand the country’s challenges and can help guide voting decisions based on policies rather than political rhetoric.
Looking ahead to the 2027 presidential debates, Karumba proposed that Generation Z representatives be given a leading role in questioning presidential candidates on issues affecting the country.
He said such an approach would compel aspiring leaders to provide detailed policy proposals and demonstrate their preparedness to address unemployment, public debt and other economic concerns.
Karumba maintained that issue-based politics, rather than populist promises, should define the country’s next election campaign.
Backing the remarks, Taslima Mohamed, from Wajir county representing northern youth in that initiative and who has been fighting for the inclusion of a girl child and access to equal opportunities, urged youths to register as voters in large numbers so as to elect the visionary leaders who will focus on youth and women empowerment
‘‘The crops of leaders we see are just opportunistic, they hijacked youth led fight for their selfish interests, taking photos for political gimmick to post on their social media accounts, something that we don’t want to continue,’’ Taslima stated.