Kenya Youth Movement Calls for Swift National Youth Council Elections
Members of the Kenya Youth Movement (KYM) have urged the Ministry of Youth Affairs to expedite preparations for the long-overdue elections of the National Youth Council (NYC), which have not been conducted since 2012.
The youth leaders, including several aspirants for NYC leadership positions, expressed their appreciation for the government’s commitment to finally holding the elections.
Speaking at a press briefing, KYM Secretary General Ramadhan Mayende commended the Ministry of Youth Affairs, led by Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, for prioritizing the elections after a 14-year hiatus.
He emphasized that filling leadership vacancies in the NYC is critical for championing youth affairs and ensuring a structured representation of young people in national decision-making.
“As KYM, we deeply appreciate the ministry’s dedication to conducting these elections. We cannot afford to have a leadership vacuum in the NYC any longer,” Mayende stated. “We also urge the ministry to expedite the process to avoid unnecessary confusion among young people.”
Mayende also addressed concerns over individuals attempting to declare themselves as NYC leaders without a formal election process.
He called on all aspirants to follow the correct procedures and engage in legitimate campaigns at their grassroots levels before the official election date.
KYM Chair Assistant Sagini Dennis echoed Mayende’s sentiments, reiterating the importance of unity and a fair electoral process.
He urged all aspirants to exercise patience and allow the ministry to finalize proper election procedures to ensure credibility.
“We are the future of this nation, and it would be detrimental if we allowed disorganization to take over. We must maintain unity of purpose and ensure that the elections are held in an orderly and transparent manner,” Sagini remarked.
Additionally, the KYM leaders reaffirmed their support for NYC’s Acting CEO, Gloria, commending her efforts to engage with young people through various platforms, including media discussions and youth forums.
They called on her to continue working closely with the youth to ensure their voices are heard and represented.KYM members also took the opportunity to thank President William Ruto for appointing Fikrini Jacobs as the Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs.
They expressed confidence in Jacobs’ leadership, given his extensive experience in student governance and youth advocacy.
“As a former student leader, Fikrini Jacobs understands the challenges young people face. We look forward to working with him to drive meaningful change,” Sagini added.
Ongala John, another KYM member, emphasized the importance of democratic participation in the NYC elections.
He urged all eligible youth to prepare to cast their votes and ensure that the leadership transition is inclusive and representative of all young people across the country.
“Kenya is a democratic nation, and we must be allowed to exercise our right to vote. The youth must be given equal opportunities to participate in this process,” Ongala stated.
KYM leaders encouraged all youth across Kenya, including those in urban centers and grassroots communities, to remain engaged in the election process. They reassured young people that once the elections are held, everyone will have an opportunity to voice their concerns and shape the future of youth leadership in the country.
