The Power of Parliament Degraded by Gen Z

By Abdhallah Katana

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

Kenya has witnessed an unprecedented surge of political engagement from Generation Z – a techno-savvy youths characterized by their digital experience and fierce  advocacy for social justice.

This generation has taken to the streets and social media to voice its dissatisfaction with various aspects of governance particularly in the corruption, unemployment, police brutality and all in all caused by the rise of the finance bill. 

As these protests gain momentum, the role of Parliament in addressing the concerns of this vibrant generation becomes increasingly critical. The institution comprises the National  Assembly and the Senate that hold significant legislative power. 

It is the epicenter of the nation’s law-making process, endowed with the authority to formulate, amend and repeal laws. The Gen Z protests have highlighted a fundamental disconnect between the youth and the political establishment. 

Young Kenyans are demanding accountability, transparency and a proactive stance against corruption. They seek meaningful employment opportunities and a fair justice system. 

Parliament, in  its capacity, can bridge this gap by enacting policies that address these grievances. Employment policies must prioritize skill development and create an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship.

Moreover, Parliament has the responsibility to scrutinize the executive branch. This oversight function is crucial in a democratic government, the recent protests have underscored the need for greater scrutiny of the law enforcement agencies, particularly in relation to police brutality. 

The use  of live bullets and rubber bullets caused great damage to the nation as many  youth  lives succumbed during these protests, some were injured and left in a critical condition in several hospitals.

The deployment of the KDF into the streets to handle the chaos all over the country left many Kenyans puzzled while interrogating where the power of the Parliament had disappeared to with begging questions: Is Kenya fighting a foreign enemy or Al-shabaab within its borders? How do you fight a local citizen with the heavy artillery machines?

Even though the media, is a fourth-estate of the government, why was it still attacked? Was Parliament compromised to amend rules or who do Kenyans hold into account for the deployment?

There is need for reasonable answers to these questions apart from questioning whether the duties of Parliament have been taken by another body? What about the Ministry of Defence or the National Police Service?

Parliamentary committees can summon officials, demand reports and ensure that human rights violation are thoroughly investigated and the perpetrators held accountable.

However, the power of parliament in responding to the GenZees’ demands on emerging issues that should be addressed with fear or favour. Kenyan legislators must transcend partisan politics and focus on engaging with the youth by understanding their perspectives and incorporating their voices into the legislative process.

Through physical meetings, social media interactions or youth advisory panel engagements, the August House will then, be a more inclusive and responsive to the sovereign power that belongs to the people of Kenya.

Again, the recent protests throughout the country were an indicative that democracy was not a spectator sport, but that Parliament power is ultimately derived from the people not parliamentarians. Therefore, for meaningful change to occur, there must be a civic engagement.

The GenZees with their vibrant energy and innovation are well-placed to lead that change if they also participate in the electoral process as aspirants or voters.

Although the power of Parliament is immense, it must be exercised in a responsive manner. It must understand the GenZees’ protests are just a clarion call for change and accountability – nothing more, nothing less!

The elected members must listen to the young voices and act decisively through harnessing its legislative power to foster a more just, equitable and prosperous Kenya.