NAIROBI, Kenya- In a powerful call to action, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has encouraged Kenyan youth, especially Generation Z, to register as voters and embrace their role in shaping the country’s future.
Speaking at the Priesthood Fellowship Church in Kahawa West, Gachagua emphasized that young Kenyans hold the key to the nation’s political direction, urging them to engage actively in the democratic process.
Gachagua’s message to Generation Z was clear: voting is empowerment. Addressing a congregation that included young people and parents, he stressed the importance of voter registration as a way for youth to make their voices heard.
He urged parents to guide their children in obtaining national IDs and registering as voters, pointing out that an active youth electorate could shape decisions that impact Kenya’s future.
This call to action comes as political tensions rise, and Gachagua himself has recently faced challenges in the political arena.
Gachagua, who was impeached last month following a fallout with President William Ruto, hinted at his plans for a political comeback.
He shared that he’s been meeting with religious leaders, business figures, and professionals to strategize for Kenya’s future.
“I’m talking to a lot of people, and when the time is right, I will tell you,” he said, expressing optimism and a vision to prevent similar challenges from recurring.
While the specifics of his plans remain undisclosed, his remarks suggest a broader coalition-building effort that could shape Kenya’s political landscape in the years to come.
Gachagua’s call for civic participation comes on the heels of a turbulent period for Kenya’s youth.
This June, protests erupted across the country as young Kenyans rallied against a Finance Bill seen as unfair. The protests, which drew thousands, ultimately led to President Ruto retracting the bill under intense public pressure.
However, the demonstrations came at a tragic cost, with over 50 young lives lost in confrontations with police, while others remain missing under mysterious circumstances.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has stated that authorities are unaware of the missing individuals’ locations, raising serious concerns over the safety of Kenya’s young activists.
With Kenya’s youth at a crossroads, Gachagua’s message carries weight: the path to influence lies in the ballot box.
As the country navigates political challenges, young Kenyans are reminded that their participation is essential.
While the recent upheaval underscores the urgency of political engagement, Gachagua’s outreach suggests that a generation motivated by civic responsibility could help steer Kenya toward a brighter future.
