By Sheryl
With legal age, a right unfurls,
But fear replaces civic pearls.
Leaders we choose, a hollow show,
Blind to our struggles, watch wealth flow.
Generations built on sacrifice,
Sweat, tears, and blood, a heavy price.
But hearts grow numb, hope starts to wane,
What purpose holds this endless pain?
Why do we vote? For faith misplaced,
Men of the world, empty promises- a future laced
With sugared lies and fleeting gain?
We're not naive; this childish game!
We dream of futures bright and bold,
Safe spaces where our stories unfold.
Policies that foster growth, not fear,
Inclusion’s call, a chance held dear.
But why this charade, this endless vote?
For hand-outs small, a paper boat
To mask corruption’s churning tide?
We crave true change, where dreams reside!
Not empty sermons, saints in name,
Nor fear-mongers fuelling war’s hot flame.
We reject land grabbers, thieving hands,
And leaders stained by ill-gotten sands.
We rise, the youth, with voices strong,
Demanding justice where we belong.
For in this choice, power lies,
To break the chains and claim the land.
So let our vote be not despair,
But action’s call, a future rare.
We’ll build a nation just and true,
The answer lies not in “What?” but “Who?”
Kenya’s history is marked by struggles for social change. The Mau Mau Uprising (1952-
1960) exemplifies a fight for independence that brought tangible benefits to Kenyans. Yet,
the question remains: Are we truly liberated from colonial shackles?
Recent protests reveal a nation grappling with numerous challenges. Political factors, such
as authoritarian regimes and exclusionary governance, have sparked public discontent. The
rising cost of living, exacerbated by tax hikes without corresponding benefits, has fueled
public anger. Youth unemployment and underemployment have created a volatile
demographic ready to mobilize against perceived injustices. Additionally, social justice
issues, including a troubling rise in femicide, forced disappearances of activists, and police
brutality, have eroded public trust.
These grievances are legitimate and protected by Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution,
which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, demonstration, picketing, and petition.
However, the reality starkly contrasts with these constitutional rights. Peaceful protests have
recently been met with excessive force, resulting in deaths, injuries, and disappearances.
To address these issues effectively, the Kenyan government must handle the following
factors efficiently and inclusively:
Political Reforms and Inclusive Governance: Political reform is crucial for Kenya’s
advancement on the global stage. Good governance underpins sustainable development,
economic growth, and social progress. Kenya must prioritize reforms that promote
transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.
Independent and Robust Media: During protests, some media houses lacked live coverage
or faced threats of closure if they reported on incidents. An independent media is vital for
unbiased reporting and holding those in power accountable.
Embrace Education: Investing in quality, compulsory education fosters critical thinking, civic
knowledge, and media literacy. An informed populace is better equipped to participate
meaningfully in democratic processes and create employment opportunities.
Anti-Corruption Measures: Strengthening institutions like the judiciary to ensure
independence from government manipulation is essential. Upholding the rule of law and
protecting civilian rights is crucial for fair use of public resources.
Meaningful Youth Engagement and Social Media Activism: In an era where technology plays
a significant role in young people’s lives, leveraging social media can raise awareness,
mobilize support, and hold leaders accountable.
Political reform efforts require sustained commitment. It is our obligation and right to
advocate for a better country, lest we become stifled voices. Let’s make our country our
business.
