Gen Z's Call to Action: Can hashtagOneTerm Change Kenyan Politics?

By Ruth Jebiwott 

HashtagOneTerm is the new mantra, symbolizing their demand for change and accountability from the government. The movement, fueled by social media, has put President William Ruto on notice, with many believing he won't get a second term. But what drives this frustration, and can Gen Z's momentum translate into meaningful change?

Kenya's politics has long been dominated by the same elite group, with little representation for the youth. The 2010 Constitution promised a new era of accountability, but corruption and impunity persist. The Finance Bill 2024 sparked widespread protests, highlighting issues like corruption, police brutality, and lack of representation. These issues have been simmering for years, and Gen Z is no longer willing to wait for change.

Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, is the largest demographic in Kenya, making up over 30% of the population. They face unprecedented challenges: unemployment, climate change, and a crippling debt burden. Their frustration with the system is palpable, and hashtagOneTerm is a reflection of their desire for a new kind of politics. They want leaders who prioritize people over power, and they're willing to take to the streets to demand it.

Social media has been the catalyst for Gen Z's mobilization, providing a platform for organization and expression. Hashtags like hashtagOneTerm and hashtagRejectFinanceBill2024 have trended globally, drawing attention to Kenya's struggles. Online activism has translated into real-world protests, with Gen Z leading the charge. They're not just protesting; they're building a movement.

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), a key opposition party, faces a critical decision. Some leaders have joined Ruto's broad-based government, sparking concerns about betrayal. Can ODM balance power with principle, or will it lose credibility with Gen Z? The stakes are high, and the consequences of getting it wrong are severe.

If ODM prioritizes power over people, it risks alienating Gen Z and undermining the hashtagOneTerm movement. The consequences would be severe: loss of trust, decreased mobilization, and a return to business as usual. Kenya's politics would suffer, and the youth would seek alternative, potentially destabilizing, avenues for change.

Gen Z's protests have shown their potential to shape Kenya's future. With numbers and determination, they can influence policy and hold leaders accountable. The hashtagOneTerm movement is just the beginning; Gen Z's engagement with politics will define Kenya's trajectory. They're not just fighting for a better future; they're fighting for a better present.

Despite momentum, Gen Z faces challenges. The government may employ tactics to divide and suppress the movement. ODM's actions will be crucial in determining whether Gen Z's energy translates into lasting change. Will they stand with the people, or will they prioritize power?

The hashtagOneTerm movement signals a shift in Kenyan politics. Gen Z demands accountability, transparency, and representation. If successful, this could be the start of a new era, where leaders prioritize people over power. Kenya's Gen Z has spoken: hashtagOneTerm is a call to action.

The movement's success depends on unity, persistence, and accountability from leaders. As Kenya looks to the future, one question remains: will politicians listen to the people, or will the hashtagOneTerm movement become a footnote in history?