Allans Ademba and Sophie Mugure discuss the potential impact of the youth vote in politics, questioning whether it is a significant force and how it can influence elections. They highlight that young voters are often referred to as a "sleeping giant" but emphasize that this demographic is not uniform in its views and needs.

Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), has warned Kenyans, particularly Gen Z protesters, against participating in planned commemoration protests, citing intelligence reports of a potential violent crackdown in the Mt. Kenya region. He expressed concerns for public safety following previous demonstrations that resulted in fatalities, urging citizens to stay away from the streets on Thursday.

Kenya's Gen Z protests in 2024, which focused on issues such as proposed tax increases, the rising cost of living, unemployment, and corruption, garnered significant global attention. Initially sparked by opposition to the 2024 Finance Bill, the protests evolved into a broader challenge against the political establishment. An economist evaluates the outcomes of these protests, considering what has changed and what remains the same in the political landscape of Kenya.

The protests, which originated as a digital campaign, evolved into one of the largest youth-led demonstrations in Kenya's recent history. This movement was characterized by its lack of clear political sponsors, hired crowds, or ethnic divisions, as young Kenyans utilized social media to organize and advocate for their demands.

According to Tanzania Affairs, young Tanzanians expressed their frustration over economic exclusion during protests on October 29, 2025. Many observers initially interpreted these demonstrations as a response to the elections, but research indicates that the youth are increasingly dissatisfied with their lack of economic opportunities in the country.

Two years after significant protests by Generation Z against President Ruto's government, thousands of young people in Kenya are preparing to demonstrate once again. The upcoming protests are a response to ongoing issues that have prompted discontent among the youth.