Daddy Owen weighs in after Sifuna’s superstar reception in Kitengela
Musician Daddy Owen has explained what is happening after Gen Zs appear to be leaning towards Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.
In a post on X on Sunday, February 16, 2026, Daddy Owen attributed Kenyans’ behaviour towards Sifuna to what he described as the hedonic treadmill.
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His comment came shortly after activist Japrado posed an online question about what the new Sifuna wave could mean for other public figures who had previously enjoyed strong youth backing.
“What does this new Sifuna wave mean for Maraga and Okiya Omtatah? Have Kenyans moved on from the Gen Z preferred candidates?” Japrado wrote.
Responding to the post, Daddy Owen simply said, “My brother, have you heard of something called the hedonic treadmill?”
His remark sparked discussion, with many trying to interpret what he meant amid the shifting public excitement.
Over the weekend, Edwin Sifuna, alongside Siaya Governor James Orengo and other leaders, drew large crowds in Kitengela, Kajiado County.
Videos circulating online showed enthusiastic supporters cheering and walking alongside the leaders. At some point during the gathering, police dispersed sections of the crowd using tear gas, adding to the dramatic scenes that later dominated social media timelines.
The warm reception sparked renewed online debate about shifting public moods.
In 2024 and 2025, there had been strong calls from sections of young Kenyans urging activist Okiya Omtatah and former Chief Justice David Maraga to consider presidential bids in 2027.
At the time, social media was awash with endorsements and campaign-style messages supporting the two.
What is the hedonic treadmill?
The hedonic treadmill, also known as hedonic adaptation, is a psychological concept describing how people tend to return to a stable level of happiness despite major positive or negative events.
Experts explain that after a new achievement, a public figure or trend excites people, the initial thrill gradually fades.
This phenomenon helps explain why public enthusiasm can shift from one personality to another over time.
The excitement feels fresh and intense at first, but as familiarity grows, attention naturally moves elsewhere.
Daddy Owen’s brief comment suggests that changing public opinion may simply reflect normal human behaviour rather than permanent shifts in loyalty.
