• Kenya approaches a generational turning point in its political landscape. New voices are emerging from the coastal city of Mombasa which speaks their voice of deep understanding of the region’s challenges.

Kenya is approaching a generational turning point in its political landscape, and nowhere is this shift more visible than in Mombasa, where new voices are rising to challenge the status quo.

Among them is Fahad Yusuf, popularly known as King Fahad, who has formally declared his intention to run for Mombasa Senator in the 2027 general elections.

Fahad represents a bold, youth-led movement that seeks to revitalize local politics through a Gen Z-driven platform rooted in accountability, economic revitalization, and democratic renewal.

His recent appearance on TV47’s Kikao segment showcased his unapologetic stance on controversial issues, including a passionate rebuttal to claims that coastal communities are lazy.

“We are not lazy, we are intelligent, but we lack experience,” he said, a statement that resonated deeply with viewers and positioned him as a proud defender of Coastarian dignity.

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Fahad also delivered a sharp critique of Mombasa’s political status quo, arguing that ODM’s dominance has stifled competition and innovation.

He warned that without a distinct local political movement, Mombasa risks recycling the same ideas and leadership styles. To counter this, he called for the formation of a coastal political party that reflects the region’s unique character and aspirations, urging a shift from “politics of survival” to “politics of growth and vision.”

Fahad challenged the inequities of the Campaign Finance Act, advocating for reforms that would ensure fair competition among candidates regardless of their financial background.

His candidacy signals not just a run for office, but a broader call for inclusive democracy and a new political identity for the coast.

Youth-led politics in Kenya is undergoing a powerful transformation, driven by frustration, innovation, and a deep desire for change.

Over 75% of Kenya’s population is under 35, and youth make up 55% of the labor force.

Despite their numbers, young people have historically been underrepresented in formal politics, often sidelined by older elites and party structures.