Billy Mwangi Declares Embu Senatorial Bid, Vows to Lead Gen Z into Government
Though Mwangi is currently a student, he has expressed confidence that he meets or will meet all qualifications before the next general election.
The 24-year-old activist, Billy Mwangi. Photo/The Guardian.
By Linda Muhanji
Billy Mwangi, the 24-year-old activist who captured national attention after his alleged abduction last year, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the Embu Senatorial seat.
Speaking boldly on Tuesday, June 24, Mwangi declared his intention to contest in the upcoming election, promising to champion the voice of Generation Z and push for a new wave of leadership.
“I will be vying for the senatorial seat in Embu County,” Billy said. “To those who believe in me—and even those who doubt me—the same God who protected me during my abduction will lead me to victory.”
Mwangi, who rose to prominence as a Gen Z political voice, emphasized that his campaign will be powered by faith and the collective energy of young people determined to reshape Kenya’s future.
If elected, he would replace Alexander Mundigi, Embu’s current senator, and become the fourth individual to hold the post since the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.
In recent weeks, Billy has appeared alongside former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua during a Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) tour in Embu, sparking speculation about political alliances forming behind the scenes.
According to Kenya’s laws, any aspirant for Senate must be a Kenyan citizen, a registered voter, hold a degree from a recognized university, and meet other basic requirements such as being of sound mind, not bankrupt, and having no criminal record.
Though Mwangi is currently a student, he has expressed confidence that he meets or will meet all qualifications before the next general election.
Billy’s political journey stems from a deeply personal experience. On December 21 last year, he was allegedly abducted in Embu Town by individuals believed to be affiliated with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
He was reportedly taken while waiting at a barbershop, and his arrest was allegedly linked to social media posts featuring AI-generated images mocking President William Ruto.
His disappearance, alongside two others—Bernard Kavuli and Peter Muteti—sparked outrage across Embu. Protests broke out, businesses shut down, and the town was brought to a standstill on December 27 as residents demanded their release.
Billy was freed on January 6, and upon release, gave a chilling account of his ordeal. He claimed he was tortured daily, sedated, and barely given food during his detention—an experience he says scarred him mentally but also ignited his political fire.
Now, as he takes his first steps toward public office, Billy Mwangi says he wants to be a voice for justice, accountability, and youth empowerment.
“Gen Z will form the next government,” he declared, promising a fresh start for Embu and Kenya at large.
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