Photo journalist and civic educator Allan Ademba has claimed that politicians are attempting to infiltrate and hijack the ongoing #TukoKadi voter registration campaign by offering branded campaign resources.
Speaking during an interview, Ademba revealed that he has received multiple calls from individuals allegedly linked to political actors, offering logistical support in the form of campaign trucks already branded with the initiative’s messaging.
According to Ademba, the offers go beyond ordinary support and point to a coordinated attempt to associate political interests with what has been positioned as a non-partisan civic drive.
“I’ve been receiving phone calls… they are saying they will give us a lorry, branded with Niko Kadi, Tuko Kadi, even with my face on it,” he said.
The #TukoKadi initiative, which has gained traction among youth and influencers, is aimed at encouraging voter registration ahead of upcoming electoral processes.
Ademba issued a firm warning to those attempting to insert themselves into the campaign, stating that any such efforts would be rejected outright.
He specifically cautioned that if any politically affiliated trucks appear at upcoming rallies, they would be turned away — or even forcefully removed.
“If a lorry appears at our rally in Kibra, Lang’ata, Embakasi, Anniversary Towers or Westlands, we will chase those lorries away… we will not allow politicians to hijack this movement,” he stated.
The #TukoKadi campaign has drawn support from several Kenyan celebrities and influencers, positioning itself as a youth-led push to increase voter participation.
Ademba emphasized that the integrity of the movement depends on keeping it free from political manipulation, particularly at a time when voter mobilization efforts can easily be co-opted for partisan gain.
His comments reflect a broader tension in Kenya’s civic space, where grassroots initiatives often face pressure from political actors seeking visibility and influence.
These events are expected to bring together young voters, civic educators, and public figures in a coordinated effort to boost registration numbers.
Ademba’s allegations come amid increased scrutiny over the intersection of civic initiatives and political interests in Kenya.
