A public statement by lawyer Willis Otieno has renewed debate on Kenya’s long-running struggle with political renewal, after he argued that long-serving leaders continue to undermine progress despite decades in power.
Otieno made the remarks on his official X account on Thursday, calling for a shift away from what he described as inherited political dominance.
Otieno said veteran politicians have held influence for extended periods without delivering improvements in governance or economic wellbeing.
He noted that many of them maintain power through long-established networks within parties and state institutions, creating little room for new leadership.
According to his statement, these figures “recycle the same speeches and promises” while remaining distant from day-to-day challenges facing citizens.
His comments come at a time when Kenya is grappling with questions about generational transition, particularly ahead of future electoral cycles.
Younger aspirants have increasingly pressed for space within major political parties, arguing that longstanding leadership structures limit fresh policy ideas.
In his post, Otieno also highlighted concerns about public trust in institutions.
He pointed to rising hardship among young people and persistent gaps in service delivery, issues that have shaped political discussions across counties.
By attributing these challenges in part to entrenched leadership, he urged Kenyans to rethink their reliance on long-established political figures.
Otieno did not single out specific parties or individuals, but his remarks touched on themes that affect both national and county politics.
Kenya’s multi-party system has produced several coalitions over the years, often dominated by senior leaders who have shaped key decisions from campaign strategies to parliamentary negotiations.