As Kenya enters 2026, the nation faces critical challenges in governance, security, and the economy, following a demanding 2025 marked by civic unrest and economic pressures. The government's response to public discontent, especially from Gen Z-led protests, and accountability for incidents involving excessive force will significantly impact the road to the 2027 General Election.

• The Gen Z–led protests of 2025 highlighted issues of high living costs, unemployment, and perceived injustice, signaling a disconnect between the populace and political power.
• Capital FM structured its editorial focus in late 2025 around national conversations covering diplomacy, business and technology, tourism, health, and security, emphasizing inclusive public discourse.
• Kenya begins 2026 with a focus on governance, addressing questions about a potential governance or constitutional crisis and calls for a national referendum alongside the 2027 elections by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
• The economic situation sees cautious optimism with eased inflation, but households still face heavy taxes, scarce jobs, and high living costs, requiring growth to translate into tangible relief.