Eugene Wamalwa Warns Gen Z Votes Insufficient to Unseat Ruto, Calls for Broader Alliance

As Kenya looks ahead to the 2027 General Election, key opposition figures are strategizing to present a formidable challenge to President William Ruto's administration. 

Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa has called for a unified opposition, emphasizing the need for collaboration between veteran leaders and the country’s burgeoning youth vote. Speaking in a recent interview, Wamalwa highlighted the potential of Gen Z voters, approximately six million strong, as a critical demographic in shaping Kenya’s political future. 

He cautions, however, that their numbers alone may not be sufficient to unseat the incumbent. "It will take the whole country and an intergenerational partnership to rid this country of this regime," Wamalwa stated, underscoring the necessity of a broad-based coalition.

Drawing parallels to the successful 2002 elections, which saw a coalition of opposition parties defeat the long-ruling Kenya African National Union (KANU), Wamalwa reveals plans to recreate that momentum. He cites potential alliances with key figures such as Justin Muturi, Fred Matiang'i, and Martha Karua, envisioning a coalition reminiscent of the 2002 National Rainbow Coalition (NARC). 

This coalition aims to avoid fragmentation, which Wamalwa warned would only strengthen Ruto’s prospects for re-election. The youth, galvanized by recent political activism against proposed tax hikes, are expected to play a pivotal role in the upcoming elections. Wamalwa notes their potential impact, emphasizing the importance of engaging and mobilizing this demographic, many of whom are disillusioned with the current political landscape.

Amidst growing public concern over the burden of heavy taxes, Wamalwa assures citizens that the opposition coalition would offer a viable alternative. The Jubilee Party has already endorsed Fred Matiang'i as its presidential flagbearer for 2027. Party officials and regional leaders have widely supported Matiang'i, citing his leadership qualities as essential to challenging Ruto’s presidency. 

His nationwide campaign is anticipated to gain significant traction in the coming months. In a strategic move to appeal to younger voters, Martha Karua's NARC-Kenya party has rebranded as the People's Liberation Party (PLP). The rebranding reflects a progressive, people-centered agenda, with a renewed commitment to democratic ideals. 

"Our slogan is 'Unite - Liberate,'" Karua announced, unveiling the party's new colours and symbol.