Ademba Allans: Tuko Kadi movement is sponsored by the people

Ademba Allans, the voice lead in the Tuko Kadi movement.

Ademba Allans, the leading voice in the Tuko Kadi movement, has revealed that the Gen Z-led voter mobilisation campaign is not backed by traditional sponsors, but by the collective experiences and frustrations of Kenyans.

Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV on Sunday, Ademba Allans delivered a striking message, framing the movement as one “sponsored” by citizens, past injustices, and the urgent need for accountability through the ballot.

In his remarks, Allans used symbolic language to redefine what it means to fund a movement.

“We are sponsored by the people… we are sponsored by those who died in 2024,” he said, referencing recent national events that have shaped public discourse.

According to him, the push to get young people registered is fueled by the frustrations and realities facing ordinary Kenyans. He cited those who lost their lives in 2024, as well as alleged cases of public funds mismanagement, as the driving force behind the urgency to participate in the democratic process.

He reiterated that the push for voter registration among young people is driven by lived realities rather than financial backing.

He also made reference to large sums of money he claimed had been lost or misused, using these examples to highlight growing public concern over accountability.

Rather than focusing on specifics, Allans framed these claims as part of a broader frustration among citizens, particularly young people, who feel disconnected from decision-making processes.

The Tuko Kadi movement, which translates to “We Have the Card,” is a youth-driven initiative aimed at increasing voter registration among Gen Z.

It leverages social media influence, grassroots outreach, and peer-to-peer engagement to encourage young Kenyans to obtain their voter cards and participate in elections.

The movement emerges against the backdrop of persistent concerns over low youth voter turnout despite their numerical strength. Allans' message positions voting not merely as a civic right, but as a responsibility shaped by circumstance.

“We are also sponsored by the fact that we must vote,” he said, underscoring the inevitability of civic participation in addressing the country’s challenges.

His rhetoric seeks to transform frustration into action, particularly among a generation often perceived as politically disengaged.

The interview also hinted at an escalation of activities by the movement, with Allans signalling intensified efforts in the coming week.

“Next week we are really sponsored,” he stated, suggesting a more aggressive push to drive voter registration and awareness campaigns.

Reactions to his remarks have been mixed. Supporters praised the message as bold and reflective of the frustrations many young Kenyans face, while critics have urged for greater clarity when referencing sensitive national issues.

Nonetheless, the statement has succeeded in drawing attention to the importance of voter registration among youth.

As the country moves closer to future electoral milestones, initiatives like Tuko Kadi reflect a growing sense of political awareness among younger citizens.

Whether this renewed energy will translate into higher voter registration and turnout remains to be seen, but the message is clear: youth voices are becoming increasingly central in shaping the national conversation.