Veronicah Muthaa: Bubbly Gen Z eyeing Leshau Pondo MCA seat

By Newsflash Writer

As two-time Leshau-Pondo Member of County Assembly (MCA) Gathungu Kamau eyes the Ndaragwa Parliamentary seat in 2027, a new youthful contender is emerging to fill the gap.

At just 21, Veronicah Muthaa has declared her bid for the Leshau Pondo MCA seat, determined to prove that leadership is not about age but service.

Grassroots leadership

“I chose to vie for this seat because leadership begins at the grassroots,” she tells Newsflash. “Real change starts from the ward level, where daily challenges are felt. I want to be the bridge between the people and the county government to ensure that resources are used fairly and development reaches every corner of Leshau Pondo.”

Although still pursuing her higher education, Muthaa has completed several professional courses that she says have equipped her with practical knowledge and skills. She prefers to focus less on her unfinished degree and more on the ideas and commitment she carries for her people.

Her confidence, she says, comes from passion and determination. “If we keep waiting for others, nothing will change. I believe in the energy, ideas, and determination of the youth. My voice, combined with the voice of the people, can bring meaningful transformation,” she says.

Manifesto and priorities

Her manifesto reflects her youthful energy and clarity of thought. At its core is a people-centered agenda focused on fairness, empowerment, and development. Her pledges include:

Quality healthcare services
Better roads and infrastructure
Oversight of local projects
Support for farmers
Empowering women and youth
Fair budget allocation
Active public participation
Peaceful and clean politics
Free computer and driving skills for school leavers
Mental health support for the youth

Challenges of a young aspirant

Like many Gen Z aspirants, Muthaa admits she faces skepticism, limited resources, and being underestimated because of her age. Yet she remains resilient. “I stay focused, grounded in my vision, and committed to proving that youth can lead with integrity and results,” she says.

Society’s reception, however, has been encouraging. “Many people, especially the youth and women, have welcomed the idea with excitement. Of course, there are those who doubt, but I see this as motivation to prove them wrong,” she adds.

Veronicah Muthaa addressing her supporters in a past meeting. Photo/Handout

Muthaa also acknowledges the unique challenges of being a young woman in Kenya’s largely patriarchal political landscape.

“Being a young woman in politics means constantly proving yourself in spaces dominated by men. The stereotypes, doubts, and at times dismissive attitudes are real. But I stand firm, knowing that leadership has no gender,” she says.

Her biggest hurdle so far is resource mobilization. “At the moment, I have no resources, sponsors, or well-wishers supporting me financially. What I have is my vision and a clear manifesto, and I believe that is powerful enough to convince people,” she explains. “Leadership is not about how much money you pour into politics—it is about ideas and the ability to inspire trust.”

She also knows that securing a party ticket will not be easy. But she is prepared. “I will face party nominations with courage, strategy, and grassroots support. My plan is to build strong community networks so that my candidature is people-driven, not party-driven,” she insists.

A call to youth

Her message to fellow young people is simple but bold: act now. “We should not be told to wait for tomorrow, because we are not just the leaders of tomorrow—we are the leaders of today. Let us rise, organize ourselves, and take part in shaping our communities now. If we step up today with courage and unity, the future will take care of itself.”

In a political environment often dominated by older voices, Veronicah Muthaa’s entry is a refreshing reminder of the power of youth, the strength of ideas, and the courage it takes to lead early.