A section of youth leaders and aspiring politicians linked to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have come out strongly against zoning arrangements, terming the practice undemocratic and a barrier to youth participation in politics.
Speaking from different parts of the country, the youth argued that zoning, where political parties informally allocate elective seats to specific candidates or regions, undermines the constitutional right of voters to freely choose their leaders.
Vincent Kiboye, a youth representative from Suba South Constituency in Homa Bay County, said zoning limits voter choice and risks lowering the quality of leadership. He warned that the practice could also discourage voter participation.
“It promotes mediocrity because leaders may ascend to power without merit, and it can lead to voter apathy when people feel their preferred candidates have been locked out,” he said.
Maurice Achapa echoed the sentiments, describing zoning as unconstitutional and divisive.
“We cannot balkanize our country based on political affiliations. Any Kenyan should be free to vie for any seat anywhere in the country,” he said.
In Nairobi’s Kibra Constituency, Mwaniki Mwanzia, the organizing secretary of the United Democratic Alliance, said zoning disproportionately affects young leaders. He argued that it denies both candidates and voters their constitutional rights.
“This is not democracy—it is control. When you lock out a candidate, you deny voters their fundamental rights under Article 38 of the Constitution,” he said.
Brian Odhiambo, an aspiring MCA for Woodley Ward, said the youth are ready to take up leadership roles but are often blocked by entrenched political interests.
“Our time is now. We have solutions to issues like unemployment, but zoning allows a few elites to decide who gets opportunities,” he said.
Others pointed to the broader implications on political competition and freedom of association. Abok Elisha criticized zoning in Nyanza, saying the region has a long history of fighting for democratic space.
“We should allow more parties and create a competitive environment. If someone feels excluded in one party, they should be free to join another, as provided for under Article 36 of the Constitution,” he said.
Alfred Omondi Otieno Aguk, an MCA aspirant for Wangcheing Ward in Homa Bay County under UDA, warned that zoning tends to favor incumbents at the expense of emerging leaders. He referenced past political strategies such as the “six-piece” voting pattern, arguing that such approaches have historically limited competition.
“Young leaders deserve a fair chance to contest and serve their communities,” he said.
The growing criticism from youth signals increasing resistance to zoning within party ranks, setting the stage for potential internal contestations as political formations prepare for upcoming elections.
Read: Young Politicians Oppose Zoning Proposals in ODM–UDA 2027 Pact
>>> MP Kibagendi Blames Luo Community, ODM Insiders for Raila’s Failed 2022 Presidential Bid
Leave a comment