Kenya has a large number of young people. They form the biggest part of the population. Even so, real political power stays with a small group of older leaders. This has been the case for a long time, and many young Kenyans feel left out when it comes to making decisions that affect their lives. In a recent discussion on the Political Ringside show, Gilbert Nalwa shared his thoughts on this issue. He is the National Youth Leader of the Economic Patriotic Alliance, or EPA Party. He also works as a journalist, communication strategist, and someone focused on governance matters.
Nalwa explained how young people often get promised a bigger role in politics, but those promises do not turn into real change.
One clear example he gave is the National Youth Council. This body is meant to speak up for youth issues and get government support.
The council has funding approved, like 165 million shillings set aside in October last year.
Yet elections for its leaders have not happened in over 12 years. Without elected representatives, the council cannot properly push for what young people need.
During the Gen Z demonstrations, the President promised to make sure elections take place and give the council more independence. So far, that has not happened, and youth concerns remain without strong voices inside the system.
Nalwa pointed out that political parties sometimes include young people just to look good. They give them titles or small roles, but the real choices and power stay with the same old group.
This creates an illusion of inclusion while nothing much changes at the top. He believes there needs to be honest talks between generations so that youth get fair chances in jobs, education, and leadership.
Another problem he raised is how much propaganda shapes politics in Kenya instead of real policy ideas. Leaders use stories, staged events, or even fake violence at rallies to control what people think.
Social media platforms like X, Facebook, and TikTok have become important tools for sharing messages. Young people are active online and can spread information fast.
But online energy does not always lead to votes or wins in elections. Many young Kenyans do not register to vote or turn up on election day. Misinformation also spreads easily, making it harder to build trust and focus on facts.
Devolution was supposed to bring power and resources closer to the people through counties.
In reality, Nalwa said, what got devolved in many places was corruption itself.
Some county leaders spend money on things like fancy Christmas decorations while basic needs like roads, health, and schools stay neglected. Poverty continues, and there is little accountability because the systems meant to check leaders are often weak or influenced by the same people in charge.
Ethnic divisions still play a big role in Kenyan politics. Leaders often appeal to tribe to win support.
Nalwa noted that younger people are less focused on tribal languages or strict ethnic loyalties compared to older generations.
They care more about shared goals like better jobs and fair opportunities. He thinks this shift can help move politics toward national issues rather than tribal ones, but leaders need to speak in ways that unite everyone.
The EPA Party, where Nalwa serves, pushes for economic liberation that helps all ages, especially through practical policies. He encouraged young people not to lose hope.
Even with challenges like limited money for campaigns or resistance from established politicians, youth have advantages.
They are smart, connected through technology, and full of energy. The key is to get involved on the ground, register as voters, fight misinformation, and demand real seats at the decision-making table.
The question is whether youth movements can turn their ideas and frustration into actual influence.
Traditional structures are strong, but change is possible if young people stay active, build alliances, and keep pushing for accountability and inclusion.
Nalwa ended on a hopeful note, saying young people cannot afford to give up because so much of the future depends on their participation.
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