A section of Kenyan youth under the Kenya Youth Movement (KYM) and Kenya Youth Organization (KYO) have welcomed the appointment of Fikirini Jacobs as the Principal Secretary (PS) for Youth Affairs and Sports, terming it a significant step towards youth inclusion in leadership.
Speaking at separate press events in Nairobi, KYM Chairman Ken Koech and KYO President Johnmark Ababu lauded President William Ruto’s decision, saying Jacobs’ appointment brings hope to young people across the country.
They described him as a leader with a strong background in youth affairs, having served as a student leader at university level.“We appreciate the President for ensuring that one of our own, Fikirini Jacobs from Kilifi County, has been appointed as PS for Youth Affairs and Sports. We believe in his ability to transform the youth sector,” said Dennis Sagini, KYM’s Co-Secretary General.
The youth leaders also commended the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for its efforts in organizing the long-overdue National Youth Council (NYC) elections. The elections, which have not been conducted since 2012, are expected to provide young people with a democratic platform to voice their concerns and influence policy.“As KYM, we appreciate the commitment of the ministry, led by CS Ababu Namwamba and PS Salem Vuria, to ensure these elections happen.
The NYC has remained vacant for 14 years, and we cannot afford further delays,” Koech stated.However, they raised concerns over individuals allegedly declaring themselves as NYC leaders without a legitimate election process. They urged all aspiring candidates to follow the proper channels and await the official electoral procedures.“We disown those claiming leadership without a proper mandate. Every aspirant should return to their constituencies, campaign fairly, and let the youth elect their rightful representatives,” Ababu emphasized.
The youth leaders further called on NYC’s Acting CEO, Gloria Omondi, to continue engaging young people in decision-making processes and ensuring free and fair elections.
They urged Kenyan youth nationwide to remain patient and actively participate in the upcoming elections.“This is a crucial moment for youth leadership. We must remain united and allow due process to take its course,” Sagini added
