Political Ringside stands as a leading platform for analysis of leadership and political matters in Kenya.
In a recent episode, host Fridah Mong’are spoke with political commentator Leakey Ochola about the state of the Gen Z movement one year after the major 2024 protests.One year on, the anniversary events on June 25 drew smaller crowds than expected.
The conversation looked at why fewer people turned up compared to previous years. Ochola noted that no lives were lost during the recent protests, which he saw as progress. He pointed out that both citizens and police showed more restraint this time.
Police used less force, and protesters also acted with greater care. This mutual understanding helped keep things calm.
The discussion turned to the movement’s momentum. Many young voices from the protests have since joined established parties.
Kasmuel moved to ODM, while Morara Kebaso joined Jubilee.
Ochola viewed these steps as practical choices rather than betrayal. He explained that politics involves interests, but good leaders create benefits for others while pursuing their own goals.
Joining bigger parties gives young leaders a platform to influence change from within the system.
Ochola stressed that protests are important, but they need clear goals beyond anger. He encouraged the youth to turn their energy into votes and agendas that last.
Being leaderless sounded good at first, but the movement often looked to individuals for direction.
He said young people should be more pragmatic and focus on what comes after the streets. Real change, he argued, requires participating in elections and institutions.
The talk also touched on political parties. Ochola, who supports ODM, believes parties should be built on ideas that outlive individuals. He gave examples like how some parties remain strong after their founders.
For Gen Z, he suggested aligning with existing structures can be a smart way to gain power and push for better governance.
Starting new parties is hard due to funding and organization challenges.Looking ahead to 2027, the episode asked whether Gen Z can still shape Kenya’s direction.
Ochola believes the youth have numbers on their side but need to focus on solutions, not just problems.
Voting wisely matters because government affects daily life, from basic needs to opportunities. He encouraged thinking about leaders who make life easier for ordinary citizens.
The conversation offered a balanced view. The Gen Z protests brought important awareness, but sustaining impact requires strategy, participation, and realism.
As Kenya prepares for future elections, the energy from the youth remains key, but it must evolve into long-term engagement.
Political Ringside continues to provide such frank discussions to help viewers understand these shifts.
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