Wamae blasts mainstream parties for selling nominations to highest bidder
By Kiprono Keileb, August 25, 2025Political aspirant and former Roots Party presidential running mate, Justina Wamae, has taken to social media to criticise mainstream political parties, stating that financial clout, rather than talent or dedication, determines who secures nominations and party tickets.
Posting on her official X account on Monday, August 25, 2025, Wamae painted a stark picture of the challenges young politicians face within Kenya’s established political structures.
“When I see young people running around in these big political parties, I sympathise. The reality is that you will do the legwork, but when Moneybag comes… hizo party tickets and nominations will be given to the one with the money, of course, that is not you,” Wamae said, highlighting the financial barriers that hinder youth participation in politics.
A personal lesson in political exclusion
Wamae recounted her own experience in the 2017 elections, describing how monetary demands and party decisions sidelined her despite her efforts and resources.
“Anyway, Bw. You are the reason I would never take myself to a big party. That call you made in 2017 that there will be no nominations in Mavoko constituency despite me having struggled to pay Ksh125,000 as nomination fees, which was never refunded, was a lesson,” she explained.
Wamae’s account underscores the systemic barriers that many young leaders face in mainstream political pathways.
She also criticises older politicians for their jealousy toward the younger generation, claiming that entrenched political elites often work to block new talent from rising.
“The oldies in Kenya’s political landscape are jealous of us, the younger generation,” Wamae said, framing her criticism as part of a broader struggle for equitable participation in politics.
Despite her criticisms, Wamae expressed a sense of vindication in the changing political landscape. She referred to Jubilee Party’s current status, implying that power dynamics are shifting in ways that favour persistence and strategy over mere financial influence.
“However, Mungu ni nani. Jubilee is now a village party and my enemies are suffering,” she tweeted, celebrating a perceived turn of events in her favour.
Youth Politics and the Future
Wamae’s candid statements resonate with a growing number of young Kenyans who feel marginalised by established political structures.
Analysts say that her critique highlights both the challenges and opportunities for youth engagement in politics, pointing to the need for reforms that reduce the influence of money and increase merit-based participation.
By sharing her personal story, Wamae not only criticises the status quo but also signals a determination to redefine political pathways for young leaders in Kenya. Her message is clear: talent, dedication, and integrity must eventually outweigh financial muscle in the nation’s political contests.