Justina Wamae: Voters in Kenya are definitely wrong, they need leadership
By Faith Lagat, September 6, 2025Former Roots Party deputy presidential candidate Justina Wamae has reignited a heated national conversation after blaming Kenyan voters for the country’s political woes.
In a post on her official X account, Wamae declared that Kenyans often complain about leaders they themselves elect.
“What beats me about voters in Kenya is the fact that they make a choice on the ballot, and then they start complaining that their choice was wrong. Clearly, this is indicative that the voters in Kenya are definitely WRONG, and that is why they need LEADERSHIP,” she wrote.
Her comments, echoing earlier sentiments from August, have sharply divided opinion online, with some praising her bluntness while others accused her of dismissing genuine frustrations.
Revisiting the Igathe debate
Wamae rooted her criticism in an example from the 2022 Nairobi gubernatorial debate, where she questioned why voters insisted that corporate executive Polycarp Igathe prove his grassroots connection by washing toilets. She argued that such demands miss the essence of leadership and ultimately weaken governance.
“Bwana, you made a captain of industries, Igathe, wash toilets to prove that he was on the ground… yet washing toilets was not part of his job description,” she remarked, suggesting that Kenyans must accept structured leadership instead of demanding impractical displays of humility.
Her point underscores a larger concern—that voter expectations often clash with effective management, creating cycles of disillusionment and poor results.
Call for Gen Z to engage
Wamae’s sharp words come in the wake of widespread protests earlier this year, including the youth-led demonstrations in June and the escalation of the Saba Saba movement. She questioned the direction of youthful activism, wondering aloud whether the unrest reflected genuine civic concern or manipulation.
“I don’t know if it’s Gen Zs or Goon Zs paid by the government who are looting, but how I wish this energy would have been put into voter registration,” she said, urging young people to channel their influence into shaping the 2027 elections.
As the 2027 polls draw closer, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has tasked the reconstituted Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission with rebuilding public trust. Wamae’s challenge to voters adds a fresh twist to this debate, forcing Kenyans to reflect on their role in electing leaders who can deliver meaningful change.