In a statement shared on his X account, reflecting on his experience, Ndii noted the need for youth to understand the enduring nature of political careers in Kenya.
The opinionated adviser mentioned that he was 37 years old when former President Mwai Kibaki took office, having already spent a decade as an activist.
“One of the blindspots of youth is to underestimate resilience and longevity in Kenyan politics. Kibaki joined the government before I was born. When he became president, I was 37. I’d been an activist for a decade. Tulieni.”
“The Genz foray into politics on middle-class interests without the numbers is not new. It was even more daunting in the 90s with no independent middle class. But a tiny intelligentsia, a hundred strong at best, figured out how to using guerilla tactics.”
These remarks come at a time when Kenyan youth are increasingly vocal in their dissatisfaction with the current government, organizing protests online and on the streets demanding better governance.
What do youths want?
Among these is a call for President Ruto to resign from office, citing discontent with his entire administration.
The protesters also demanded the immediate dismissal of government officials who have criminal records or are involved in corruption, seeking to address issues of integrity within the administration.
They proposed salary reductions for MPs, capping their earnings at Ksh200,000, arguing that MPs should not earn more than doctors.
Additionally, the protesters called for the abolition of some government positions, such as the Chief Administrative Secretary roles, and the elimination of public funding for the offices of the First Lady, Second Lady, and Prime Cabinet Secretary’s spouses.
They suggested redirecting these funds to hire more teachers and doctors. Another demand is for the executive to obey all court orders, which underscores a push for greater respect for the rule of law.
The protesters also called for the abolition of the housing levy and demanded the publication of audited records on how these funds have been used, along with refunds for all contributors. Furthermore, they called for a lifestyle audit of state officers to ensure transparency.
