The fierce former President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Nelson Havi, has issued a scathing indictment of the continent's geriatric political class, declaring that Africa cannot progress until it purges the "old guard" and installs a new generation of leadership.

In a statement that resonates with the growing Gen Z sentiment across the continent, Havi argued that the current crop of leaders is "held hostage" by colonial-era thinking and corruption. His remarks come as he repositions himself for the Westlands parliamentary seat in 2027, tapping into a vein of anti-establishment anger that is pulsating from Nairobi to Dakar.

"We Need Leaders, Not Dealers"

Havi's critique goes beyond age; it attacks the integrity of the political elite. "Africa needs a new crop of leaders who are not afraid to question the status quo," he asserted. He pointed to the use of administrative chiefs to manipulate elections—a tactic he claims is being retooled for 2027—as evidence that the old system is digging in its heels.

• The Westlands Ambition: Havi, who lost the Westlands seat in 2022, is framing his 2027 bid not just as a campaign, but as a revolution. "I have the ability to withstand coercion, inducement, or threats," he told supporters.
• The Gen Z Factor: His rhetoric aligns perfectly with the demographic shift. With millions of young, disillusioned voters entering the roll, Havi is positioning himself as the intellectual spearhead of the "Occupy Parliament" movement.
• The Judicial Angle: As a senior counsel, Havi warns that the Executive's capture of Parliament and the Judiciary is the final nail in the coffin of democracy unless "bold" leaders step up to sever the puppet strings.

A Continental Malaise

Havi's diagnosis is stark: Africa is rich in resources but impoverished by leadership. By calling for a "clean sweep," he is challenging the electorate to stop voting for tribal kingpins and start voting for competence. Whether the "Brave One" can translate this high-minded philosophy into votes in the gritty reality of Nairobi politics remains to be seen, but the battle line for 2027 has been drawn.