Gen Z: Leading the Charge For Change: An Analytical Perspective
The Ugandan Resurgence Is Building, Driven By Poverty That Transcends Tribal, Political, And Religious Lines. When The Tipping Point is Reached, The Mellow Ugandans Will Reveal Their Strength. It’s Only A Matter Of Time If The Political Class Continues Its Excesses.
Uganda Today Edition: Kenya’s Gen Z: Concluding What Started Decades Ago
Youths Take a Stand Against Political Impunity
News outlets are abuzz with the courageous actions of Kenyan youths who have risen to challenge the rampant political impunity in their country. In a surprising turn, these young activists have distanced themselves from political camps, focusing solely on the well-being of humanity.
The Cycle of Electoral Deception
In many African countries, including Kenya, politicians often take the electorate for granted once elected, trampling on the rights of the masses. The ideals of democracy, which dictate that governments should be changed through the ballot, have become a tool for enslaving the population from one term to another.
Personal Reflections from the Early 90s
My first visit to Kenya as a student in the early 90s was eye-opening. As part of AIESEC Uganda at Makerere University, I interacted with Kenyan students from various universities. While socializing with students from affluent backgrounds, it was the interactions with those from humble origins that left a lasting impact.
The Silent Lamentations of the Less Affluent
Three decades ago, I heard numerous stories from less affluent students about how Kenya favored the rich. Those born into old money or connected to political elites had guaranteed success. In contrast, those from poorer backgrounds were trapped in slum environs with no place to call home, facing dire choices in hard times.
Simmering Discontent
These students carried heavy hearts, burdened by their circumstances. The discontent simmered beneath the surface, waiting to reach a critical point. Like an earthquake, the seismic movements were beginning, and the lava spills were yet to flow.
The Illusion of Prosperity
Kenya has long been admired by unexposed Ugandans for its apparent prosperity. However, this perception is a lie. A few politically connected families own over 50% of Kenya’s wealth. Names like Kenyatta, Moi, Saitoti, Biwott, Michuki, Odinga, Kibaki, and Nyachae dominate the list of wealth holders, with the Kenyatta family alone owning over 500,000 acres of land.
Hopelessness and Political Deception
The growing hopelessness among Kenyans has been a gradual buildup. Many believed the ballot would bring change, only to be disappointed by politicians who dispense hopelessness after winning. President Ruto, once seen as a beacon of hope, is now referred to as the “King of Poverty.”
Gen Z: Leading the Charge for Change
The actions of Kenya’s Gen Z are a result of reaching a tipping point. Drawing parallels to the Arab Spring, these young Kenyans are spearheading change in a remarkable way.
A Call to Ugandan Gen Z
To those wondering why Ugandan Gen Z isn’t following suit, it’s time to reflect. Small changes lead to people-centered governance. The Ugandan resurgence is building, driven by poverty that transcends tribal, political, and religious lines. When the tipping point is reached, the mellow Ugandans will reveal their strength. It’s only a matter of time if the political class continues its excesses.
Watch this space.
Wire James X – @wirejames