The protests by Millennials and Gen Z have been historic and have achieved a lot.
Starting with the fact that we have managed to stop the nation to think and self-introspect, it is no mean feat and it won’t be business as usual anymore.
Critically, the fact that the tax law to fund the government budget was withdrawn due to citizen pressure is significant.
Don’t forget the reports that suggest that President is mulling reorganising the government as a result of the protests.
Also, we have managed to make the display of opulence by public officials including politicians a matter to be ashamed of.
We have managed to have bullies who misuse public money and privileges like overlapping on roads hide, even if for a brief moment.
We see politicians and duty-bearers who would ordinarily be arrogant while addressing the public, hurl expletives and dismiss genuine public concern toning down.
We have exposed the President and his administration for the world to see that while he is highflying abroad, his policies are hurting millions and sinking them into poverty and he does not listen to the plight of those he leads.
Moreover, we have also exposed how partisan the police are in dealing with dissent contrary to what the law envisages and in spite of the massive investment in its reforms.
The President has also been exposed for his lack of empathy in leadership. We now have his attention.
Perhaps a bigger win from all this is the awakened consciousness of Kenyans.
The majority now understand that it is the job of all of us to hold power bearers accountable in our small ways, including by just exposing them and speaking up.
It is likely that with the pricked conscience of the nation. Election to high office will now be based on track record and performance as per the law.
Citizens will now deploy sharp microscopes on the work of every public office holder to ensure they do the right thing for the Kenyan people.
The protests have achieved a lot, stirred a huge generational awakening whose wave could sweep away many people from public office.
Millennial journalist who attended all protests spoke to Star