For Kenyan political parties adapting to new realities or revisiting political fundamentals, the importance of getting back to the grassroots to solicit support can never be overstated.

From the veteran old guards to the newly launched outfits, the call to flood the grassroots has dominated the talks of Kenyan politicians as the country heads into several mini-polls across the nation.

The elections, widely seen as midterms, are set to paint a picture of where they stand as far as the decisive 2027 general elections are concerned.

Central to the push is the 2024 anti-government protests led by the Kenyan youth and witnessed across the nation.

The movement highlighted the emergence of youth as a significant force in politics, but also exposed a deep disconnect between political elites and ordinary citizens, especially young people, over issues like governance and economic policies.

Political Shift

Kenya is also undergoing a major political shift, with campaigns previously centered on ethnic loyalty or handouts now morphing to policy solutions such as economic recovery.

According to Political commentator Fred Ogola, this change has not only impacted their work but also their leadership.

With the Kenyan youths more concerned about issues related to human rights and their very survival, politicians have been compelled to address their systemic grievances, a facet only possible through a deliberate outreach.

A necessity

These factors, coupled with the need to cancel out the narrative being peddled by rival politicians, have rendered engaging the grassroots not just a necessity but a survival tool.

Speaking recently during ODM’s event, the National Chairperson, Gladys Wanga, underscored the importance of the party maintaining a strong presence at the grassroots ahead of the upcoming by-elections.

“We need to keep a strong party for us to maintain our strength and numbers. It starts with the by-elections and I know we will be heading to the grassroots to mobilise not just on election dates but also during campaigns,” he added.

Similar sentiments were made by DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua, whose party’s slogan is aptly Skiza Wakenya.

The former DP asserts that politicians are made not on social media pages or press conferences but on the ground.