Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua/X

A new political catchphrase is taking over Kenyan social media—and it all started at a roadside rally.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua coined the word “Cuzo” while addressing crowds during a campaign blitz along the Coast with other opposition leaders.

The term, a playful twist on “cousin,” is now trending on X (formerly Twitter).

“Makuzo mko hamko? Makuzo mko hamko?” Gachagua asked the cheering crowd in Kasemeni, Kwale County, during the rally.

In his speech, Gachagua likened the new political alliance—featuring Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and DAP-K boss Eugene Wamalwa—to a family reunion.

That now-viral “Hi cousins” moment has since taken a life of its own online.

Kenyans have embraced “Cuzo” in memes, captions, and street talk.

It’s become a cheeky way to refer to friends, political allies, or just about anyone, especially when talking about unity, common interests, or humour.

In videos, some sign off with “Hi cousins,” while others caption group photos with “Hi cousins.”

The phrase is even being used in romantic and friendship posts.

X user Brian Osoro says this is classic Kenyan humour.

“When a politician uses relatable language, especially something as casual as ‘cousin,’ it sticks. Kenyans love turning political moments into pop culture,” he said.

This isn’t the first time a political rally has birthed a trend. The political stage has long been a source of everyday slang in Kenya.

Whether used seriously or sarcastically, 'Hi cousins and Cuzo' is now part of the 2025 political and cultural vocabulary.

"Hi cousins, Hi cousins, Hi macuzo, and the journey of cousins, the family of people who are like-minded, who were born together and has same tradition, the time for the cousins to come together is now," Gachagua said.