A youth-led political movement, Youths for Ruto 2027 (YR ’27), has come out strongly in support of President William Ruto’s re-election bid, while urging Kenyan youth to shun violence and embrace peaceful civic engagement.
Speaking on Tuesday, the group’s Secretary General, Mark Ouko, condemned what he termed as “growing attempts by certain political elements to mislead and manipulate young people into actions that threaten the nation’s peace and stability.”“As the energetic and hopeful generation that holds Kenya’s future, we firmly reject any form of violence, anarchy, or destruction as a means of expressing discontent,” Ouko stated.
He emphasized that President Ruto’s leadership has prioritized youth inclusion in national development through job creation, digital innovation, and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). According to the group, these initiatives provide a constructive pathway for youth empowerment and national progress.
Youths for Ruto 2027 also announced the official launch of its campaign, set to take place on June 25, 2025, in Nairobi. The event will be officiated by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, with attendance expected from United Democratic Alliance (UDA) leaders, youth champions, and supporters nationwide.“We proudly and unequivocally declare our total support for President Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid,” Ouko said. “His commitment to youth empowerment and inclusive governance aligns perfectly with our aspirations for a modern and prosperous Kenya.”
The group concluded by rallying Kenyan youth to reject political manipulation, embrace peace, and support what they described as President Ruto’s “transformative leadership.”
This comes amid heightened political tensions and youth-led protests in various parts of the country over issues of governance, economic strain, and accountability.
