Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on Kenyan youth, particularly those in Generation Z, to take control of their future by registering as voters.
Speaking at the Priesthood Fellowship Church in Kahawa West on Sunday, Gachagua, who was impeached last month following a bitter fallout with President William Ruto, emphasized that the nation’s future lies in the hands of its young people.
Gachagua’s comments came amid growing political uncertainty, as his impeachment marks a significant chapter in the ongoing power struggle within Kenya’s political leadership.
However, the former deputy president sought to redirect the focus from his personal challenges to the importance of civic engagement, particularly among the youth.
“The future of this country rests in your hands, and the ballot is the tool for empowerment,” he urged, highlighting voter registration as a critical step in securing the nation’s political direction.
During his address, Gachagua urged parents to encourage their children to obtain national identification cards and register to vote, recognizing that political engagement is key to safeguarding the region’s influence in national decision-making.
The importance of young people participating in the electoral process has never been more pressing, with a growing sense of urgency surrounding the need for a political shift in the country.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Gachagua reassured his supporters that he remains actively engaged in talks with a wide range of stakeholders, including religious leaders, business figures, and professionals.
“I’m talking to a lot of people, and when the time is right, I will tell you. We will share our plans and listen to your input to ensure we never face similar challenges again,” he said, hinting at the possibility of returning to the political arena. His words suggest that, even in the face of adversity, Gachagua is far from done with his political ambitions and is strategizing for a potential comeback.
Gachagua’s remarks come at a time when the youth of Kenya have been at the forefront of the country’s political and social movements.
In June 2024, thousands of young Kenyans took to the streets in protest against the Finance Bill, which they viewed as a burden on their already struggling livelihoods. The protests, which saw widespread demonstrations across the country, led to violent clashes with police, resulting in over 50 deaths, most of them young people.
Many others remain unaccounted for, adding to the growing concerns about the safety of political activists and the crackdown on dissent.
The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has yet to provide any answers regarding the whereabouts of the missing protesters, further intensifying public skepticism about the government’s handling of the situation.
In the shadow of these protests, Gachagua’s call to the youth is both a message of empowerment and a reminder of the power that lies in collective action through the electoral process.
While his own political future remains uncertain, Gachagua’s advocacy for voter registration and civic participation signals his continued commitment to shaping the future of Kenya, even if it means standing in opposition to the very government he once served.
