This archive report was first published on 14 June 2020.
Kenya's voting patterns are a fascinating study in consistency. Every election, 75% of MPs are sent home, and yet, in every electoral cycle, Kenyans choose a president who embodies the qualities of a leader who is connected to the people: moderate, peacemaker, innovative, communicator, and messiah.
However, with the ongoing political machinations and ailing economy, Kenyans are growing fatigued by the same names. The usual contenders, who have inherited their positions or have powerful godfathers, are President Kenyatta, the Jubilee Party chief and son of First President Jomo Kenyatta; ODM supremo Raila Odinga, son of first Vice-President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga; and Kanu leader Gideon Moi, son of second President Daniel Toroitich arap Moi.
ANC party leader Musalia Mudavadi is the son of Moses Mudamba Mudavadi, a powerful minister in Jomo's first two Cabinets; Wiper boss Kalonzo Musyoka's godfather, Mulu Mutisya, handed power to him; and Deputy President William Ruto was created by Moi's YK92. All are Kanu products, representing the past and the Kenya of 1963, when we gained independence 60 years ago.
But that will change. The latest census shows that 80% of Kenyans are young and not interested in the history. They want a good life, and Kenya has become more urbanised and citizens more critical and analytical.
As we approach the 2022 polls, a new crop of leaders will be in contention. Among them are Dr. Alfred Mutua, Mr. Wycliffe Oparanya, Dr. Fred Matiang'i, and Hassan Ali Joho. These leaders have the potential to bring about the change that Kenyans so desperately need.
Dr. Mutua, the Machakos governor and Maendeleo Chap Chap party leader, is youthful, well-educated, and internationally exposed. He has an enviable development record and no pronounced grudges. He is systematic, hands-on, and organised, and his party did well at its infancy in 2017.
Mr. Oparanya, the Kakamega governor and chairperson of the Council of Governors, comes across as a strong leader. He was a minister in the Kibaki-Raila
