I recently came across a clip of former US President Barack Obama casually walking out of a restaurant. As he made his way out, diners broke into spontaneous applause. There was no grand announcement. Just a man leaving a restaurant. That is the Obama effect. Years after leaving office, he continues to evokes awe, admiration and great respect across political divides and national borders. It speaks volumes about the kind of leader Obama was, and still is.

That kind of reverence is not accidental. It stems from a presidency built around service, integrity, and a deep connection with the people. A commitment to democratic ideals and an ability to inspire an entire nation. I have been through four elections since I first voted yet I struggle to recall a former president who commands such enduring admiration across the board. While we have had great leaders, the truth is our politics has never allowed for a presidency that transcends tribe, class or party. 

Our politics is largely transactional. Campaign promises rarely survive beyond swearing-in. Manifestos are publicity tools, quickly discarded once power is secured. We reward loyalty over principle, and celebrate ambition over service. The cost of all that is a disillusioned electorate who feel cheated a few months in. 

Exactly a year ago today, that disillusionment spilled onto the streets. The anti-Finance Bill protests were a unified voice of displeasure driven by young Kenyans not just because of tax hikes. They were on the streets calling out impunity, corruption and the betrayal of Kenyan voters. Tragically, it cost the lives of some. But their dreams and ultimate sacrifice is what keeps the hunger for a better Kenya alive. The silence after the smoke cleared and politicians went back to their dealings wasn’t surrender but a quiet resolve to restrategise.

It is within this context that the re-emergence of Fred Matiang’i into the political arena has sparked real interest. His initial appearance a few months ago drew palpable enthusiasm, enough to cost a senator their seat. Whether he can rise to the occasion remains to be seen. But this moment presents an opportunity to redefine what leadership in Kenya can look like.

Kenya is ready for a leader who is radically different and respects the rule of law. Our constitution remains our blueprint for governance. This leader must not only uphold it but use it to serve, protect and empower the people. Not to oppress them.

We need a leader who will unify the country across whatever divides. Our diversity, be it ethnic, economic or regional, should never be exploited. Kenya’s next leader must demonstrate a genuine commitment to inclusion and cohesion.

Public service must be the heart of leadership. Simply being Kenyan should mean access to education, healthcare, jobs, and justice not just for the connected few, but for every citizen. We are all shareholders. The only candidate who can tug at our hearts is one of character, quiet courage and proven integrity. Not perfect but one whose public and even private life is marked with major and little victories against self.

Our next leader should be one that holds the family unit dear not just for photo ops but as an integral pillar of society. A man who openly honours their family sends a strong message of their appreciation of the place of family in mending and strengthening our social fabric. 

Today’s electorate is enlightened. Voter awareness is rising, and the hunger for transformational leadership is growing. This is a civic awakening that will not be silenced by aggressive online teams and propaganda machines. The most they will do is infuriate the masses.

Thanks to the high hopes that were deflated in the last election, the electorate is determined not to be fooled again. The call to get it right in the next election is not a bluff. It it the one binding vow.

Obama didn’t become beloved simply because he was a great speaker. He was an exceptional leader. He listened, he served, and he led with principle and humility. That spontaneous applause just mirrored who he was while in office. It is a standard the 6th, whoever they will be, can attain but only, if they get it right.

Ms Wekesa is a development communication consultant. [email protected]