The impact the 2022 elections had on politics

 

The 2022 Kenyan general election marked a significant turning point in the country’s political landscape. As one of the most keenly contested elections in Kenya’s history, its impact continues to shape the country's political dynamics, governance, and public discourse. From the results to the aftermath, the election sparked intense discussions on the future of Kenya's democratic processes, the role of youth, and the growing influence of political alliances. Here's a closer look at the impact of the 2022 election on Kenyan politics.

1. The Shifting Political Alliances

One of the most notable changes following the 2022 election was the realignment of political alliances. Historically, Kenya has been a country where politics is heavily influenced by ethnic groupings and tribal loyalty. However, the 2022 election broke many of these traditional molds, with the two major political figures—William Ruto and Raila Odinga—forming unusual alliances to garner support.

Ruto, the Deputy President at the time, ran under the Kenya Kwanza alliance, which brought together various political leaders and parties, many of whom were previously considered political rivals. His victory showed the growing power of a more populist and grassroots-driven approach to politics, with promises of championing economic empowerment, especially for the youth and marginalized communities.

On the other hand, Raila Odinga, the leader of the Azimio La Umoja coalition, has been a dominant figure in Kenyan politics for decades. His loss in 2022, after making several previous attempts at the presidency, signaled the decline of traditional political strongholds and opened the door for a new political paradigm. His efforts, however, have continued to keep him at the center of political discourse, particularly in championing reforms and standing up for democratic values.

The shifts in alliances revealed a growing trend of parties forming and breaking based on strategic, rather than purely ideological, considerations. This flexibility in political partnerships suggests a future where political loyalty may be less based on ethnicity and more on issues that resonate with the electorate.

2. Youth Influence and Political Engagement

Kenya’s youth demographic played a pivotal role in the 2022 election. With over 75% of the population under the age of 35, the youth vote became crucial in determining the outcome. Many young voters were motivated by the promises of economic empowerment, job creation, and better opportunities for education and business development, which both Ruto and Odinga emphasized during their campaigns.

Ruto, in particular, capitalized on his appeal to the youth by framing his narrative around the “hustler” movement, which resonated deeply with young Kenyans struggling with unemployment and the high cost of living. His message of a bottom-up economic model and his focus on the common citizen earned him significant support among this demographic. The 2022 election was, therefore, not just a contest between political heavyweights but also a clear indication of the growing power of young people in shaping the country's future.

This shift is significant because it signals a change in how politicians approach campaigns. Going forward, political parties will likely place greater emphasis on youth-focused policies and outreach, understanding that the future of Kenya lies in the hands of this youthful population.

3. The Role of Technology and Social Media

The 2022 election also saw the growing influence of technology and social media in Kenyan politics. For the first time, social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok played a massive role in shaping public opinion, mobilizing voters, and influencing the political narrative.

Both Ruto and Odinga’s campaigns made extensive use of social media to communicate directly with their supporters. However, the election also exposed the challenges that come with this new form of political engagement. Misinformation, fake news, and hate speech became rampant during the campaign period, which raised concerns about the negative impact of digital platforms on democratic processes.

The widespread use of technology also highlighted issues related to the credibility of the electoral process. Many voters turned to social media for real-time updates on election results, which led to the proliferation of unverified information. This has raised important questions about the need for stronger regulations and accountability in Kenya’s digital space to protect the integrity of future elections.

4. Electoral Reforms and Accountability

The aftermath of the 2022 election brought to the forefront the need for deeper electoral reforms in Kenya. The delayed announcement of the presidential results and the dispute over the outcome highlighted the need for greater transparency and trust in the electoral process. The Kenyan Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) faced intense scrutiny, and its handling of the election was challenged in court by Raila Odinga’s Azimio coalition. The Supreme Court, however, upheld William Ruto’s victory, solidifying his position as president but also exposing deep-seated issues within the country’s electoral system.

This dispute further reinforced the calls for electoral reforms to ensure greater fairness and transparency. The youth, civil society organizations, and even politicians are now calling for changes to the electoral laws, especially concerning the management of election results, voter registration, and the independence of the IEBC. These reforms are seen as crucial in restoring the faith of the Kenyan public in the democratic process.

5. The Future of Political Leadership

The 2022 election marked a new era of political leadership in Kenya. Ruto’s victory is seen as a rejection of the traditional political establishment, as his campaign was largely fueled by a message of change and a promise to tackle corruption, unemployment, and inequality. His presidency represents a departure from the dominance of Kenya’s political dynasties, with the rise of a new class of leaders who have been able to connect with the grassroots.

While Raila Odinga may have lost the election, his continued influence is undeniable. His legacy as a champion of democratic reforms and his long-standing role in Kenyan politics ensures that he will remain a powerful figure in shaping the direction of the country. His role in the post-election period, especially in calling for unity and national cohesion, reflects his status as a political statesman.

The 2022 election has made it clear that the future of Kenya’s politics will likely be marked by a more diverse leadership landscape, with a focus on the needs of the younger generation, the fight against corruption, and a continued push for democratic reforms.

Conclusion

The 2022 Kenyan election was a watershed moment in the country's political history. It demonstrated the growing influence of young people, the role of social media, and the changing dynamics of political alliances. While challenges remain, the election results and the subsequent developments suggest that Kenya is on the path to a more dynamic and inclusive political future. The lessons learned from this election will likely influence future campaigns and shape the direction of Kenyan politics for years to come.