“I’m Gen Z Too”: Senator Oburu Odinga Backs Youth‑Led Protests, Warns Political Class Against Hijacking Movement

As Kenya’s Gen Z movement continues to galvanize nationwide protests, Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga—at 81 years old—has thrown his weight behind the youth, urging both government and opposition to protect lives, property, and democratic principles.

“This country belongs to all of us. We don’t want to destroy it,” Oburu said during a press briefing, half‑joking that he is “also a Gen Z” in spirit.

Hands Off Their Agenda

The veteran politician cautioned fellow leaders against co‑opting the movement’s demands for their own gain.

“Let the Gen Z put their agenda forward. Our job is to solve the issues they raise—without killing them,” he stressed.

While affirming the right to protest, Oburu condemned violence and destruction:

“I cannot support loss of life or property. We must safeguard democracy.”

Ballots, Not Bullets

Reiterating the importance of the ballot box, the senator reminded Kenyans that elected officials have a five‑year mandate.

“If leaders fail, vote them out. That is how democracy works.”

Gen Z’s Digital Power

Kenya’s Gen Z shot to prominence in mid‑2024 during protests against the Finance Bill. What began online soon spilled into the streets, fueled by TikTok, X, and Instagram. Their decentralized, hashtag‑driven strategy has proven difficult for authorities to contain.

Oburu’s remarks underscore a widening recognition that the digitally savvy generation is now a formidable political force—one he believes must be engaged rather than suppressed.