Real change is at the ballot, not hashtags — Kalonzo

Veteran opposition leader Kalonzo Musyoka has urged young voters to channel their push for political change through the ballot, calling on Generation Z to register as voters ahead of the 2027 General Election.

In a statement shared on twitter on Thursday, the former Vice President said meaningful change could only be achieved through participation in elections, not social media activism alone.

“Your future is not decided by hashtags or comments. It is decided by the ballot,” Kalonzo said.

Addressing young Kenyans directly, he challenged Gen Z to translate their online energy into votes in the next election cycle.

“Gen Z, if you want real change, register and shoot Ruto at the ballot in 2027,” he added, using the phrase to underscore voting against President William Ruto through democratic means

Kalonzo’s remarks come amid growing political mobilisation among young people, many of whom have increasingly used digital platforms to express dissatisfaction with governance, the economy and leadership.

Last Year, IEBC director voter education and partnerships Joyce Ekuam urged the youth to take advantage of the ongoing registration to make their voice count.

She said the youth must leave social media and show up at IEBC centres if they want their voice to be heard.

“Kenyan youth, 2027 is your year. Get off social media platforms and vote. Elections are physical,” Ekuam said.

The lukewarm start has sparked debate in political circles, with leaders warning the country’s youth risk locking themselves out of the ballot in 2027.