Political debate in Kenya is becoming increasingly heated as the country moves closer to the 2027 general elections, with foreign nationals now finding themselves at the center of a growing controversy.
Videos circulating widely on social media platforms, particularly Facebook, have sparked concern after showing groups of Kenyan youth issuing warnings to Rwandans, Burundians, and Ugandans living in Kenya, telling them to leave the country before the next elections.
The footage, shared by L.C.M Media, was recorded during public discussion forums commonly known as “Bunge,” a Swahili term meaning “Parliament.” These gatherings are popular among young Kenyans who meet to discuss national issues, especially politics, governance, and economic challenges.
In one of the clips, a young participant delivered a strongly worded message directed at citizens from neighboring countries.
He declared: “I want to speak to our neighbors from Rwanda and Burundi. We have not forgotten this. If you are Rwandan, Burundian, or Ugandan, this is your last year in Kenya. In 2027, you should step aside from the country because there are things we as Kenyans want to do for ourselves. If we find you standing in a voting line, you will know who a Kenyan really is.”
The speaker further alleged that some Rwandans and Burundians had obtained Kenyan national identification cards through illegal means.
He continued: “If we find you in a voting queue, you will have to tell us who you are voting for. These are the same kinds of issues that led to people being killed in South Africa. Do not try to play that game. Rwandans living here in Kenya should tell the groups bringing people here that this is the final warning. In 2027, pack your bags and return home.”
The youth activist also referenced Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, insisting that the warning should reach him as well.
He stated: “We have warned your people. This is not a joke.”
In another controversial remark, he suggested that foreigners holding Kenyan identification documents should only use them for economic activities rather than political participation.
According to him: “Those identity cards are only for selling tea, maize, and using M-Pesa.”
The statements emerge at a time when political divisions in Kenya are deepening. Supporters and opponents of President William Ruto are increasingly polarized over whether he should serve only one term or seek re-election for a second mandate.
Groups campaigning under the “One-Term” banner argue that Ruto should leave office after his current term, while supporters associated with the “Two-Term” movement believe he deserves another five years in power.
Political observers note that such tensions often create an environment where immigrants and foreign communities become targets of suspicion, particularly during election periods.
Kenya hosts significant populations of Rwandans, Burundians, and Ugandans who have settled there for work, business, education, and other economic opportunities. Many have established successful lives and businesses, especially in Nairobi and other major urban centers.
Despite the strong rhetoric seen in the viral videos, Kenyan authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the threats or the allegations that some foreigners possess Kenyan identification documents obtained illegally.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, debates surrounding immigration, national identity, voting rights, and political influence are likely to remain sensitive topics in Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
