An open letter to Kenya's leaders: Don't let our country be reduced to a theatre of tragic comedy

I call Generation Z “graduates” of life lessons, and rightly so. This generation has stood tall, boldly pointing out the glaring failures of those who have held power for decades. For years, our leaders have left no trail of motivation, no inspiration, and certainly no mentorship for the people they lead. What else could we expect from this generation other than what we see today? In Swahili we say, “Mliyavulia nguo, sharti muyaoge.”

Gone are the days when leadership was a badge of honour, worn with dignity and upheld by moral standards. Today, leadership is defined by theatrics, a spectacle of lies, corruption, public indecency, and verbal abuse. It has become a contest of who can steal public resources the most efficiently, who can hurl the loudest insults in public, or who can physically fight their competitors if goons are unavailable.

Let us not forget the blows exchanged within parliament walls. Let us not forget the cheers we gave to those who perfected the art of political insults, clapping for leaders who abused others in the full glare of cameras at public rallies. Let us not forget how we sang praises to thieves disguised as philanthropists, eagerly receiving their ill-gotten donations while encouraging them to plunder more. We worshipped individuals we proudly called “kingpins,” whose clout depended on the number of hired goons at their disposal.

We must not turn a blind eye to the atrocities we have witnessed, leaders accused of violent acts, some implicated in murders but will never be charged as long as they’re in power even in a country said to be governed by the rule of law, may the victims rest in peace. These incidents unfolded as Generation Z watched, learning from the glaring absence of accountability and integrity. Now, when they respond in ways deemed “ugly,” the same leaders demand respect. But respect is not a given, it is earned. It is a mutual affair, and those who fail to honor it can hardly expect it in return.

The bad examples are not fading away. Instead, they are evolving, as evidenced by recent events. Bitterness, carelessness, and outright misleadership remain ingrained in our politics. Sadly, even some allies of the President, under the guise of defending him, are unknowingly digging his political grave.

It Is high time we redefined what leadership means in Kenya. Let us cast aside the theatrics and the toxic politics that have led us astray. Can we, for once, lead with integrity, inspire with action, and mentor the next generation with purpose?

Kenya deserves better, and so does its youth.