The RutoMustGo movement, led by Gen Z in Kenya, highlights significant resistance efforts but faces challenges due to short-lived actions, lack of organized support, and no clear ideological direction. A broader resistance is emerging, suggesting potential for substantial change, depending on how it is harnessed against ongoing imperialism and capitalism.
The resistance activities led by Gen Z under the RutoMustGo movement in Kenya have garnered significant attention, acting as a visible form of opposition. However, these activities often lack the endurance necessary for long-term impact, being short-lived in nature. Despite this, they contribute to raising political awareness and class consciousness among the populace. It is crucial to recognize that these acts should not be misconstrued as a definitive solution to overthrowing the current government, given the complexities of the political landscape.
Current expectations for a quick overthrow of President Ruto are unrealistic; the resistance must be framed as part of a long-term movement. Notably, they may face isolation by the ruling regime, which can hinder their sustained efforts. The inability to maintain momentum, especially through continual street activism, calls for an analysis of the reasons behind this stagnation, which includes understanding the power dynamics between the stuck government and the resisting populace.
Ruto’s apparatus wields significant political, financial, and media power, making it challenging for the resistance to compete effectively. Key obstacles also include the absence of organized labor support and a unified defense structure among the resistance. This vulnerability leaves them exposed to government suppression and challenges their ability to survive in the long-term.
A critical shortfall in the current resistance efforts is the lack of a clear ideological framework akin to past movements that energized public support. Historical examples like the Mau Mau, December Twelve Movement, and Mwakenya demonstrate the power of having a declared vision. The current resistance fails to articulate a comprehensive plan for Kenya post-Ruto, limiting potential cooperation from workers and peasants in the struggle for liberation.
Unity among the working class is vital for the success of any resistance against the comprador government. However, an organized labor movement capable of leading this resistance against capitalism and imperialism is notably absent. While there is a hidden current of working-class struggle, it often goes unrecognized and unacknowledged by those seeking change, leading to a missed opportunity for analysis and mobilization.
Moreover, the ruling class is aware of the significance of this under-the-surface resistance and actively works to suppress visibility of such movements. Recent incidents of youth protests and confrontations with police illustrate the rising discontent among the populace, though these actions are often overshadowed by larger political narratives.
In Kenya’s current political climate, where opposition is stifled and constitutional rights are disregarded, resistance methods have become necessary for the oppressed working class. Yet, the ruling elite often choose to ignore these protests, which grow from the exploitation manifesting through governance failures. The situation creates a volatile landscape where imperialist interests align with the current government, potentially leading to widespread unrest.
Despite the focus on Gen Z and RutoMustGo, a broader, more potent resistance is brewing beneath the surface. This latent force could eventually mobilize against systemic oppression, potentially leading to a transformative change or further chaos, largely depending on the actions of imperial powers connected to Kenya’s politics.
In summary, while the Gen Z-led RutoMustGo resistance has sparked noteworthy political actions in Kenya, its sustainability and effectiveness face significant challenges. The lack of a united working class, organized support, and a clear ideological framework hinders longer-term success. The dynamic shifts in power and the socio-political landscape necessitate concerted efforts toward unity among various resistance factions. The potential ferocity of an emerging broader resistance highlights the critical need for strategic organization to navigate the complexities of capitalism and imperialist influences in Kenya today.
Original Source: countercurrents.org
