By Patricia Mollyne Mataga
Controversial political analyst Mutahi Ngunyi has poured cold water into the ongoing debate over the impact of the young Kenyans on the country’s future political landscape.
Talk of the youth, popularly known as Gen Z shaping the political space gained momentum following a lagrly successful anti-government protest on Tuesday.
The protests aimed at opposition proposals in the controversial Finance Bill were largely planned by the youth who spent most of their time on social media.
But according to Mutahi Ngunyi, the protests were only for the few Gen Z. He noted that none of the youths from the rural areas and informal settlements in Nairobi like KIbera participated.
According to Ngunyi, the current debate on the Gen Z’s influence in Kenya’s politics is overrated. He branded it ‘Posh politics’.
And with the talk of a revolution brewing courtesy of the Gen Z, the political analysts said nothing of the kind can be initiated by the current generation of the young people.
“Finance Bill 2024 has given BIRTH to The GEN-Z Nation. This group has enough ENERGY to power a LOCOMOTIVE. Bravo!! But where were the Rural GEN-Zs? Where were Kibera boys with BAD BREATH?” he asked in part of the post on his verified X handle.
“You cannot do a revolution and STOP at Java to eat a SANDWICH. This is Posh Politics,” he added.
His sentiments come at a time a number of political leaders have hailed the young Kenyans for taking the initiative to shape the political concersation in the country.
Among those that have acknowledged the power of the Gen Z is former Prime Mnister Raila Odinga.
Followin Tuesday’s protests, Raila said he was proud of the young Kenyans.
“I’m a very proud father today! Hongera sana to the young lady and all those who bravely stood up for their rights!” the ODM leader posted on his X handle.
Another round of prptests have been planed for Thursday with youths from more major towns expected to join.