Nairobi, Kenya – Civic educator Morara Kebaso has voiced profound disappointment regarding what he describes as Kenya's regression into tribal politics, a stark contrast to the aspirations of the Gen Z movement that significantly impacted the nation in June 2024.

In a statement released on Saturday, October 11, 2025, Kebaso, who recently announced his retirement from active politics, lamented that the country has seemingly reverted to pre-protest political patterns.

Kebaso, a prominent figure during the 2024 demonstrations that led to multiple arrests, highlighted that the movement, initially defined by its leaderless, partyless, and tribeless ethos, now appears to be succumbing to ethnic political alignments.

“Kenya has rolled back to where it was before the Gen Z movement. We are back to tribal-based political parties and kingpins who control and negotiate our future. As if nothing happened. Nothing changed. Families of those who died are still counting the loss of their loved ones,” Kebaso stated.

Historical and Political Context

Kenya has a long-standing history of politics influenced by ethnic considerations, a legacy often traced back to colonial-era divide-and-rule strategies. Major political parties have frequently aligned along ethnic lines, with analysts arguing that this undermines issue-based governance and contributes to corruption and underdevelopment.

The Gen Z protests of June 2024, widely known as #RejectFinanceBill2024, were a series of decentralized mass demonstrations against proposed tax increases in the Finance Bill 2024. These protests, largely mobilised and coordinated online, saw thousands of young Kenyans take to the streets, leading to the reported rejection of the Bill by President William Ruto on June 28, 2024. The movement was notable for its rejection of traditional political leadership and tribal affiliations.

Laws, Policy, and Governance

Despite the significant impact of the Gen Z movement in challenging the status quo, the persistence of tribal politics remains a critical governance issue. Leaders, including National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, have urged their counterparts to shun tribalism and prioritise national interests, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 General Election.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

Morara Kebaso's recent statements reflect a growing disillusionment among some who were at the forefront of the Gen Z movement. His decision to retire from active politics, announced in June 2025, was attributed to the relentless scrutiny, criticism, and personal toll of public life. Kebaso had previously launched the National Justice, Economic and Civic Transformation (INJECT) Party in September 2024, with an aim to offer solutions rooted in youth empowerment and good governance.

Other prominent figures from the Gen Z movement, such as Kasmuel McOure and Mercy Tarus, have also reportedly retreated from the political limelight, raising questions about the sustainability of grassroots movements in Kenya's political environment.

Evidence and Data

• Gen Z Protests: The #RejectFinanceBill2024 protests in June 2024 were a significant youth-led movement against proposed tax hikes.
• Morara Kebaso's Retirement: Kebaso announced his retirement from active politics in June 2025, citing personal toll and disillusionment.
• Tribalism in Politics: Accusations of tribal politics continue to mar Kenya's political landscape, with leaders often criticised for promoting ethnic divisions.

Risks and Implications

The perceived return to tribal politics poses a significant risk to national unity and the progressive ideals championed by the Gen Z movement. It suggests that despite a powerful display of civic engagement, deeply entrenched ethnic divisions continue to influence political discourse and decision-making. This could lead to continued disillusionment among young voters who prioritise issues over ethnicity and accountability over patronage.

Unanswered Questions and Controversies

A key unanswered question is whether the momentum generated by the Gen Z uprising can genuinely dismantle the decades-old system of voting along tribal lines in the long term. While Gen Z appears poised to disrupt traditional political strategies, political analysts remain cautious about the deep roots of tribalism in Kenyan society. There have also been questions regarding the authenticity and motives of some young political figures, with some critics suggesting they could be co-opted by powerful interests.

What to Watch

The upcoming 2027 General Election will be a crucial test for the influence of the Gen Z movement and its ability to shift the political narrative away from tribalism towards issue-based governance. Observers will be watching to see if the estimated 14 million Gen Z members eligible to vote can translate their collective voice into tangible political change.