Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has called on Kenya’s leadership to embrace a new political reality, declaring that the country has moved beyond tribal politics.
In a statement on Thursday, June 26, Salasya praised the unity displayed by Gen Z during protests, noting it represent a historic turning point in Kenya’s political evolution.
"If there’s one lesson we must learn from the Gen Z-led demonstrations of this year and the last, it’s this: Kenya has outgrown the tribal politics that have defined us for far too long.
"For decades, our leaders have appealed to us on the basis of ethnicity, dividing us, distracting us, and manipulating us. But now, a new generation is rising. A generation that refuses to be boxed in by tribe, region, or political allegiance," he said.
Salasya went on to highlight how the demonstrations have transcended tribal boundaries and traditional political affiliations.
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"In recent days, we have seen young Kenyans, from all walks of life, come out in their thousands. They are not chanting tribal slogans or pledging loyalty to political demagogues. No. They are demanding accountability, calling for a working economy, and insisting on the implementation of policies that serve all Kenyans," he continued.
Salasya pointed out that what makes the protests powerful is their focus on shared national concerns such as economic inequality and youth unemployment.
"These Gen Z warriors are fighting for economic liberation, for justice, for freedom, and for a future they can believe in. They are not divided by tribe, they are united by purpose. And that is why I call upon my fellow countrymen and women: Let the issues Gen Z is raising today become our rallying call going forward," he added.
Salasya urged both citizens and fellow leaders to shift the national conversation from identity politics to practical reforms that address the needs of the people.
"Let our national discourse shift away from identity politics and toward real solutions; let us confront youth unemployment head-on; let us overhaul our broken education system and let us ensure our governance is transparent, accountable, and inclusive," he further said.
In his message to the political class, Salasya called for a decisive response to the voice of the youth.
"To the leaders of this great nation: Wake up. The youth have spoken. Kenya is at a crossroads, and if we do not listen, if we fail to act, we risk losing our country. Worse still, we risk damning an entire generation. May this be the moment we finally choose unity over division, courage over silence, and progress over stagnation," he concluded.
