Activist Morara Kebaso has sparked debate after blaming Kenyan voters for the leaders they elect, arguing that those who make poor decisions at the ballot should bear the consequences without complaint.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Kebaso said voters must stop being excused for careless choices during elections.
“A governor will do well or poorly based on the voters he has. We cannot continue excusing voters who are careless with their choices. Ukipigia shida kura inafaa ukule shida bila kelele (When you vote for problems, you should enjoy the same in peace and silence),” he stated.
“Change Starts With the Voter”
Kebaso emphasised that meaningful political change begins not with leaders, but with the electorate.
“Change does not begin with the leaders that you have. It starts with the voters that you have,” he said.
According to the activist, this belief has shaped his civic education efforts, which primarily target voters rather than politicians.
“Target yangu ni voter, abadilishe akili tupate mtu wa maana hapa mbele mwenye anaweza kuongoza vizuri who can be kept accountable (I target voters to be empowered to choose good leaders who can be held accountable),” Kebaso explained.
Focus on Civic Education
Kebaso maintained that empowering voters to make informed decisions is the key to electing accountable and competent leaders.
His remarks have since ignited mixed reactions online, with some agreeing that voter accountability is essential, while others argue that systemic issues also play a significant role in electoral outcomes.
