Rebel young Members of Parliament (MPs) and Senators from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) who are defying party orders have set their sights on the 14 million-strong youth vote ahead of the 2027 general election. The legislators, who claim to be united in the fight for Kenyans’ rights, like the united opposition, have captured national attention.

As their visibility grows, so do the questions. Will they genuinely bring a fresh wave of democratic renewal, or are they merely rebranded extensions of familiar political habits dressed up with youthful energy and reformist slogans?

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, Kitutu Chache MP Anthony Kibagendi, Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, and Kitutu Masaba MP Clive Gisairo are among the key figures in the movement.

With nearly 70 MPs, some members are comparing this movement to biblical proportions. “This journey is not easy; we are surrounded by Nebuchadnezzar, Pharaoh, and Goliath,” said Senator Sifuna.

Critics within their own political parties have labelled them rebels. However, the legislators in the movement insist they are acting within the bounds of democratic principles. “We are not rebels,” said Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, whereas MP Amisi remarked that they are upholding the spirit of democracy, something that defines ODM. He added that although they have endured threats and intimidation, they will remain resolute.

MP Wamuchomba stated that they aim to rescue the country from regressive politics and tribal loyalties, and they may either register a political party or join forces with other like-minded groups. “We are not a political party. But if our union evolves into one for the sake of the people, then so be it. If our advocacy transforms into a coalition that Kenyans can trust to lead the country, so be it.”

The bloc, “The Kenya Moja Movement”, has announced its intention to participate in the 2027 presidential race, which is largely seen as a contest between two main contenders: on one side, President William Ruto and Raila Odinga’s broad coalition, and on the other, the united opposition allied with Rigathi Gachagua and Kalonzo Musyoka.

The youthful politicians have intensified their criticism of President Ruto’s administration, accusing it of imposing heavy taxes on Kenyans, failing to address the high cost of living, and neglecting urban youth.

Senator Sifuna, who is also the ODM Secretary-General, stated in August that the country needs a new political force to champion citizens’ rights under poor leadership. “I stand by my views against the government. I want to remind those in ODM who are questioning me that I have the right to speak my mind. I will not support ODM’s resolution to endorse William Ruto in 2027,” he said.

Babu Owino has also hinted at uniting with the Gachagua-led opposition to ensure President Ruto serves only one term. “The Kenya Moja Movement is a group of like-minded politicians who are brought together with the goal of fighting for the rights of the masses just like the United Opposition is doing,” he said during a breakfast TV show on September 4.

The movement is breaking away from traditional party politics, as its members have shed their mentors’ influence to forge their own path. Moreover, their goal is to challenge established voting patterns across key regions, including Nairobi, the Coast, Mt. Kenya, Nyanza, Rift Valley, and Western Kenya.

“In politics, there’s sky and there’s the ground. The sky holds the principles, but if we can reach people directly on the ground, why not?” Babu Owino recently questioned.  

The youthful legislators appear to be championing a new wave of leadership. Analysts contend that their activities, which include community gatherings and strategic discussions, demonstrate a proactive effort to establish a robust political movement.   

Ultimately, as this emerging movement continues to gain momentum and national attention, the question remains: Are these MPs genuinely a transformative force committed to democratic renewal, or are they merely familiar politicians masquerading as advocates for change? Only time will reveal the answer.