By Robert Nyasato
In Kenya, political slogans are more than catchy phrases—they’re cultural currency.
From independence to modern-day campaigns, slogans have shaped political identities, galvanized support, and defined eras.
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Whether it was “Harambee” under Jomo Kenyatta, “Nyayo” with Daniel arap Moi, or “Yote Yawezekana Bila Moi” during Mwai Kibaki’s opposition wave, each slogan carried weight far beyond the words.
Fast forward to 2025, and the tradition continues with fresh rallying cries dominating the political landscape.
Leading the charge is Rigathi Gachagua, immediate former Deputy President and DCP party leader, whose slogan “WanTam” is spreading like wildfire among voters.
The street corruption on “one term” is hitting Gachagua’s former boss, President William Ruto super hard.
Paired with his signature greeting “Hi Cousins”, Riggy G (as Gachagua is often called) has carved out a relatable, populist persona—positioning himself as a must-have pillar for any serious presidential contender.
Hs mission? To see President Ruto exit office after his five-year term ends in 2027.
Close behind is Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, whose slogan “Tawe” has become a household chant in Luhya land.
Riding on the DAP-Kenya platform led by Eugene Wamalwa, the Tawe movement aims to challenge the dominance of Musalia Mudavadi and Moses Wetang’ula in Western Kenya’s political hierarchy.
Meanwhile, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, a seasoned opposition figure, has introduced a new slogan: “Half Term”.
His message is clear—he wants President Ruto out of office, citing failure to deliver on promises to Kenyans.
Former Interior CS Dr. Fred Matiang’i is also stepping into the fray with the “Okoa Kenya” mantra—a slogan previously used by Raila Odinga, Kalonzo, and even Ruto.
While Matiang’i is a household name in governance, his political debut still awaits definition.
Interestingly, President Ruto himself campaigned on the “Bottom-Up Economic Model”, a slogan that rallied mama mboga and boda boda riders to his side.
Yet, since ascending to power, the phrase has largely faded from his public messaging, and one cannot recall the last time Ruto mentioned or was seen near a wheelbarrow, which was his party symbol.
More is yet to come as Kenya draws closer to the next general election in 2027.
Even so, it is clear that in Kenya, as in many developing democracies, poitical branding often overshadows ideology.
Slogans become shorthand for complex agendas, emotional appeals, and tribal affiliations.
Whether they endure or evaporate, they remain a powerful tool in the arsenal of Kenyan politics.
