Kalonzo Musyoka, the Wiper Democratic Movement leader and a prominent figure in Kenya’s political landscape, has once again asserted his unwavering support for Generation Z, even if it means standing alone in his conviction. Speaking in Machakos County during a summit on women’s leadership organized by G7, a caucus of women governors, Kalonzo emphasized the significance of the Gen Z movement and the critical role of female leadership in shaping Kenya’s future.
The Unfinished Story of Generation Z
Kalonzo issued a stern warning to those who believe that the story of Generation Z is over, describing such assumptions as misguided. According to him, the influence of Gen Z on the governance and political landscape of Kenya is only beginning to unfold. “If one thinks the Gen Z story is over, they are deceiving themselves. This country will never be the same in terms of governance,” Kalonzo stated, underscoring the generational shift that is occurring in Kenya.
He pointed out that the younger generation is demanding transparency and inclusivity in leadership, a clear departure from the old ways of governance. Kalonzo’s declaration that he will stand with Gen Z, even if left alone, highlights his recognition of the changing political dynamics in Kenya, where younger voices are increasingly becoming central to national discourse.
Advocacy for Gender Parity
Kalonzo also used the platform to reiterate his commitment to gender parity in leadership. Drawing inspiration from President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, who has achieved significant strides in gender equality with a 50-50 representation in governance, Kalonzo pledged to advocate for similar parity in Kenya. “Our principle position is 50-50 gender parity,” Kalonzo announced, making it clear that this commitment is a fundamental part of the Wiper Democratic Movement’s manifesto.
He urged the people of Machakos and the broader Kenyan populace to embrace this shift towards gender equality, noting that the country has already changed in many ways. Kalonzo’s emphasis on gender parity aligns with his broader vision of a transparent and inclusive governance structure, one that reflects the diversity and aspirations of all Kenyans.
Legislative Support for Women
Kalonzo also highlighted his contributions to the advancement of women’s rights and leadership through legislative initiatives. He mentioned an amendment to the Elections Act of 2011, which he has championed, to ensure that all political parties address the two-thirds gender rule during their nominations. This amendment is crucial in ensuring that women are not just participants but active and significant players in the political arena.
However, Kalonzo expressed concern over the short window provided to enact the Elections Act 2011, calling on legislators to expedite the process before it elapses. He emphasized that Kenyan women should not feel the need to be sycophantic or apologetic about their ambitions, pointing to successful examples in Nakuru and Machakos counties as evidence that women can achieve high leadership positions with the right qualities and support.
The Future of Women Leadership in Kenya
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Kalonzo expressed optimism about the potential for increased female leadership in Kenya. He suggested that the current seven female governors could inspire more women to run for office, potentially increasing their numbers to 30 governors, provided they exhibit the leadership qualities showcased during the summit. However, he also cautioned that failure to uphold the principles unveiled at the summit, particularly the establishment of an advisory council led by Mama Ida Odinga, could discourage future female leaders.
Kalonzo praised Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti for her achievements in development and governance, stating that her leadership is a testament to the changing times. He concluded by emphasizing that the future of leadership in Kenya will be determined by grassroots support and genuine leadership qualities, rather than the influence of money and corruption.
In essence, Kalonzo’s speech in Machakos reflects a deep understanding of the shifting political landscape in Kenya. His commitment to supporting Generation Z and advocating for gender parity in leadership positions positions him as a forward-thinking leader who recognizes the importance of inclusivity and transparency in governance. As Kenya moves towards the future, these principles are likely to become increasingly central to the country’s political discourse.
