Former trade unionist Dr Isaac Kinity //Photo courtesy
A cross-section of Kenyan Gen Zs has lauded former trade unionist and human rights defender Dr. Isaac Newton Kinity for his fearless stance on governance and his deep understanding of Kenya’s political trajectory.
Speaking in a joint televised interview with three Kenyan digital media platforms on Friday, May 16, Dr. Kinity addressed the country from Connecticut, USA, where he has lived in exile for over two decades.
Dr. Kinity detailed his journey of activism, beginning in his youth, and recounted how his advocacy against President Moi’s regime forced him into exile, first to Uganda and eventually to the United States. The emotional interview triggered widespread admiration, especially among youths frustrated with the current political climate.
Felix Kipyegon, a youth from Eldoret who actively participated in anti-Finance Bill demonstrations, said Kinity’s clarity and courage stood out.
“Such eloquence in articulating national issues and with boldness the way he does is something to go by. Kinity should come home and run for president,” he said.
Caren Khilisiandi, another youth commentator, praised Kinity’s remorseful reflection and commitment to justice.
“I am amazed at how he has spoken and very remorseful of what he has gone through, fighting for a better country. He has paid the price, and the struggle is still on. Such are the voices we need to consider.” Khilisiandi said
Kevin Onyango, a youth leader in Homa Bay, said real change will only come when the electorate becomes intentional about leadership. “The fight for good governance starts with us,” he said, adding that bold and visionary Kenyans in the diaspora like Dr. Kinity should step forward and run for office.
Dr. Kinity criticized President William Ruto’s government for what he termed an erosion of justice and rising authoritarianism.
He claimed the president lied about the abductions of protestors, noting that families of abducted youth are afraid to speak out for fear of retaliation. He also challenged the government to account for individuals it claimed to have released and questioned why no public confirmation exists.
Kinity lamented the recycling of corrupt leaders and asserted that fighting corruption in Kenya is futile under current leadership.
“Those who remain silent while in government, only to speak out after being kicked out, are opportunists,” he said.
Kinity condemned Ruto’s decision to terminate all corruption cases against his allies upon assuming office and cited this as evidence of entrenched impunity. He also warned that lavish lifestyles among officials point to unchecked misuse of public funds.
He believes Kenya can end corruption within two years under a bold and ethical leader. Within five years, he says, the country can become financially stable enough to lend money to other nations.
Citing Bangladesh, where Gen Zs successfully removed a failing regime, he urged Kenyan youths to take responsibility and not wait to be told who to elect.
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