Kivutha Kibwana urges youth voter surge to break Kenya’s political stalemate
By Mustafa Juma, July 18, 2025Former Makueni Governor and reformist leader Prof. Kivutha Kibwana has issued a clarion call to the Kenyan youth, urging them to take charge of the country’s political future by registering to vote in massive numbers and actively participating in the electoral process.
In a pointed message shared on social media on the night of Thursday, July 17, 2025, while responding to a call by human rights activist Shakira Wafula, who had requested him to be in government should former Chief Justice David Maraga clinch the presidency in 2027, Kibwana questioned how dedicated professionals—like teachers—could be pulled away from service to engage in politics unless there is a transformative purpose behind it.
“How will you extract a dedicated Mwalimu out of the classroom?” he posed.
Vote mobilisation
He warned that in a country “where lies are the truth,” hope for real change hinges on the youth mobilising not just emotionally but practically—through ID and voter registration, campaigning, and securing the vote.
“In a country where lies are the truth, you need the YOUTH to turn around things. Guys to get IDs & voters’ cards in their millions. Campaign. Vote and count the vote,” Kibwana stated.
He added a sobering caution: “All else could be a bubble for now,” suggesting that without concrete electoral participation, protests, outrage, and online advocacy may ultimately lead to political stagnation.
Kibwana’s remarks come at a time of rising political disillusionment among Kenyan youth, many of whom feel ignored or exploited by successive governments.
The youth have been rallying behind Maraga and Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, whom they think are the only leaders of integrity who can transform the country.
Maraga on youth
Maraga has said that Gen Z want a better Kenya under a different leadership structure.
In a statement shared via his official X account on Thursday, July 17, 2025, Maraga disclosed that he had an impromptu discussion with young Kenyans in Kisii and that he was profoundly inspired by their innovation, tireless efforts, and boundless hope for a better Kenya under different leadership.
Their vision mirrors Maraga’s endorsement of Gen Z as agents of meaningful change.
“On my way from Kilgoris, I stopped by Kamel Park Hotel in Kisii and had an impromptu discussion with some young people. I was inspired by their innovation and hard work, and the hope they have for a better Kenya under a different leadership dispensation. Let us reset, restore, and rebuild Kenya,” he said.