Kenya’s Political Crossroads: Why a Broad-Based Government May Fail to Deliver

 Kenya stands on the brink of significant political decisions, with talks of a broad-based government, grand coalition, or government of national unity dominating the discourse. However, many Kenyans are skeptical that such arrangements will solve the country’s deep-seated issues. Instead, they believe these efforts may only exacerbate the current crisis.

For most citizens, the problem lies in the fundamental nature of such coalitions: they prioritize political expediency over real solutions. Creating positions for politicians, as President Ruto himself criticized while serving as Deputy President, does nothing to address the struggles of ordinary Kenyans. Instead, it fuels public frustration, especially when leaders appear to scramble for positions while the masses endure worsening conditions.

Raila Odinga’s Shifting Legacy

Central to the debate is Raila Amolo Odinga, a stalwart in Kenya’s political history. Once a symbol of resistance and patriotism, Odinga’s actions have increasingly divided his supporters. Critics point to a pattern of cooperation with regimes he initially opposed:

In the 1990s, his National Development Party (NDP) merged with KANU under Moi’s leadership.

After the disputed 2007 elections, Odinga joined the Kibaki government in a grand coalition.

In 2018, the "handshake" with Uhuru Kenyatta signaled cooperation without direct inclusion in the government but gave Odinga substantial influence.

Now, in 2024, Odinga’s reported willingness to engage with the Ruto regime—offering seven cabinet slots to his ODM party—has sparked outrage. Many see this as a betrayal of his long-standing fight for the people. Critics argue that joining forces with what they describe as the most unpopular government in Kenya’s history could irreparably damage Odinga’s legacy.

A Generation’s Cry for Change

The Gen Z revolution, once dismissed as a fleeting movement, has evolved into a nationwide call for systemic reform. These young Kenyans reject tribal politics, cronyism, and incremental change. Their demands for a "complete draining of the swamp" resonate across generations, uniting people in their quest for an entirely new political order.

The current regime, however, appears out of touch with this sentiment. President Ruto seems to perceive the crisis as a typical political challenge solvable through dialogue with opposition leaders. But as history shows, appeasing a few leaders while neglecting the broader population will not quell discontent.

Lessons from the Past

Kenya’s history is replete with moments where freedom movements were hijacked by moderates, leaving true reformers on the sidelines. During the fight for independence, the Mau Mau were sidelined in favor of home guards who collaborated with colonialists. Similarly, the second liberation saw figures like Kenneth Matiba and Raila Odinga marginalized, while moderates like Mwai Kibaki gained power.

Now, in 2024, Kenyans are determined to break this cycle. Many believe that the solution lies not in dialogue or coalitions but in a complete overhaul of the current system. The sentiment is clear: superficial fixes will no longer suffice.

The Prophetic Turning Point

A prophecy from 2017 predicted Kenya’s political transformation: "Overturn, overturn, overturn until He whose right it is comes." While the fulfillment of this vision remains unclear, its message resonates today. Real change requires uprooting entrenched systems—an endeavor as daunting as removing a massive, deeply rooted tree.

Conclusion: A Crisis of Leadership and Direction

Kenya is at a pivotal moment. While leaders engage in political maneuvering, ordinary Kenyans—hungry, frustrated, and desperate for change—are demanding a new beginning. A broad-based government may offer short-term stability, but it is unlikely to address the systemic issues driving the current crisis.

The path forward is uncertain and fraught with challenges, but one thing is clear: Kenyans are ready to fight for a future that prioritizes their needs over political convenience. Whether their leaders will heed this call remains to be seen.