The liberation struggle has often been marked by moments of triumph and setbacks, courage and betrayal. From Kenya's fight for independence to the quest for multiparty democracy, each phase has had its heroes and its traitors.
Lawyer Paul Mwangi, known for his insights into Kenya's political history and constitutional law, recently voiced concerns about the challenges facing the current wave of demonstrations led by Gen Z.
Reflecting on past betrayals that marred earlier movements, Lawyer Paul Mwangi showed a recurring theme: the vulnerability of liberation struggles to internal division and betrayal.
"In every struggle, there exists the risk of betrayal," Mwangi noted, drawing parallels between past and present. He referred to instances like Rawson Macharia's testimony against the Kapenguria Six during Kenya's first liberation struggle.
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Macharia's actions, driven by personal gain, resulted in the unjust imprisonment of prominent politicians in the fight for independence, delaying Kenya's self-rule.
Similarly, Martin Shikuku's clandestine meeting with President Moi in 1992 fractured the opposition and prolonged the dominance of KANU, despite Shikuku's prior reputation as a champion of the people.
Now, as Gen Z takes center stage with their demands for change, Paul Mwangi cautioned of potential betrayals that could undermine their objectives.
The youth-led demonstrations for political reforms, economic justice, and social equality have garnered widespread support and international attention.
However, Mwangi cautioned that internal discord or external interference could derail their momentum.
Drawing on legal precedents and his experience in constitutional matters, Paul Mwangi emphasized the need for strategic planning and resilience in the face of adversity.
The third liberation struggle led by Generation Z faces unique challenges in a digital age marked by rapid communication and shifting politics. Social media has amplified their voices, mobilizing supporters and drawing attention to their cause.
However, Mwangi noted that this interconnectedness also exposes them to potential infiltration and misinformation campaigns designed to sow discord.
To mitigate these risks, Paul Mwangi advised Gen Z leaders to prioritize transparency and accountability within their ranks.
As Gen Z demonstrators march forward, inspired by the legacies of past struggles and guided by contemporary principles of justice and equality, Mwangi remains cautiously optimistic.
He points to resilient movements throughout history that have overcome internal strife and external opposition to achieve their objectives.