Kenyan Gen Z to march in celebration of Raila's failure in the AUC

Some young people in Kenya, particularly from Generation Z, are organizing a national march following Raila Odinga’s recent loss in the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship elections in Addis Ababa. The demonstration, planned for Monday, February 17, 2025, has gained significant attention, with people from all generations, including Millennials and Generation X, invited to join.

Social media has played a key role in mobilizing participants, sparking widespread discussions and anticipation. However, this march is not only about Raila’s defeat—it also aims to highlight other political concerns affecting the country.

One of the primary issues is the actions of Parliament Speaker Moses Wetangula. He recently declared the Kenya Kwanza coalition as the majority in Parliament, despite a court ruling that opposed this decision. Protesters are demanding that his decision be overturned, stressing the importance of respecting legal rulings in a democratic society.

Another pressing concern is the delay in disbursing funds from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) to university students. Many students rely on these loans for their education and daily expenses, and the delays have caused significant financial struggles. The demonstrators are urging the government to release the funds promptly to prevent further hardships.

Beyond these political issues, the march also represents broader frustrations among young people, particularly regarding Raila Odinga’s leadership. Many Gen Z individuals believe that Raila, who has often been viewed as a strong advocate for the youth, did not do enough to speak out against government actions, especially concerning the killings of young protesters and the abductions of government critics.

They feel that his silence on these matters has led to a loss of support from the youth. As a result, some see his recent defeat as a sign of this disconnect between him and the younger generation.

The planned demonstration has become a symbol of young people’s desire for change, justice, and accountability in Kenya’s political system. It reflects a growing movement of youth who are ready to stand up for their rights and advocate for a better future for the country.

This march is more than just a protest—it is a call to action. It showcases the determination of young people to hold leaders accountable, demand justice, and take charge of their political future. How the government will respond to this surge of youth activism remains to be seen.