The recent by-elections showed a clear pattern: most of the Gen Zs stayed away from the ballot. And while many politicians rushed to blame “youth laziness” or “ignorance,” the truth is way more complex-and honestly, more uncomfortable for the political class.
First, many of the youth are not registered as voters. They feel detached from a system in which they feel their voices are never heard. To them, it would not make much difference to register when the same issues persist with every election cycle.
Secondly, there is deep and growing voter apathy among Kenya’s youth. Many Gen Zs are saying voting has never changed their economic reality. With high unemployment and a rise in the cost of living, to them, elections are political games that do little for their daily struggles.
Thirdly, tribal narratives and propaganda propelled by both the government and opposition during the by-elections alienated many Gen Zs. The Gen Z generation does not get moved by alliances of tribal names and slogans recycled from the previous political era. They believe in honesty, accountability, and issue-based campaigns, not drama.
Whether politicians like it or not, one thing is for sure: Gen Z is not silent; they simply don’t want to be part of a system that they feel is obsolete, unfair, and detached from their world. Unless their political leaders change tack, this trend is going to get stronger.
