Mukhisa Kituyi, the former chair of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and spokesman for the United Opposition, has stated that his formation has yet to fully connect with the Gen Zs.
During a Thursday, November 20 interview with a local radio station, the former minister stated that this is one of the reasons the United Opposition has not yet fully formed or developed a manifesto to garner support from this generation and other groups as they prepare for 2027.
It is challenging for the United Opposition to create a plan to achieve its goals, especially in 2027, as it lacks a clear agenda until it takes into consideration the ideas of this generation, who are currently demanding change and questioning the current state of affairs.
It’s challenging to develop a clear plan when these groups haven’t been involved to identify their desired changes and priorities, so this information can be incorporated into the manifesto since they make up a substantial portion of the population.
“At present, the opposition has not fully connected with Gen Zs, and you cannot identify an agenda whose primary consumers are going to be Gen Zs without their involvement,” Mukhisa stated.
Selection of a presidential candidate
Regarding the selection of a presidential candidate, he stated that they have not yet finalised a single candidate, as there are numerous individuals who might join the formation at later stages and possess the capability to run for the top position.
Selecting one candidate at this point could potentially alienate other capable leaders who might be able to lead the opposition against the president.
Malala’s protest
Mukhisa Kituyi, who had kept a long period of political silence since 2022 after being part of the late Raila Odinga’s Azimio campaign team, was recently appointed as both the United Opposition’s secretary and their spokesperson.
The DCP’s deputy leader, Cleophas Malala, opposed this decision, contending that the position ought to have been reserved for a younger individual.
Rigathi Gachagua, his party leader, claimed that he stepped in to persuade Malala to adjust his position, arguing that the alliance needed someone with Kituyi’s political expertise who has the capacity to guide and mentor younger individuals.
