I'm happy to be associated with Niko Kadi movement – Gachagua

Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua/FILE

Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has expressed enthusiasm over the Tuko Kadi voter registration drive, urging young people in Nyeri to enlist in large numbers ahead of the next General Election.

Speaking on Thursday during a youth mobilisation rally in Nyeri, Gachagua said he is pleased to be associated with the movement, which targets millions of young Kenyans yet to register as voters.

“I am very happy to be associated with the ‘Niko Kadi’ movement. I’m therefore very excited to come here to join our young people in this great movement,” he said.

Gachagua described the youth as a decisive force in shaping the country’s future, noting that they cannot easily be influenced by short-term incentives.

“I have absolute faith in our young people. I love them and I trust them and know they will not let this country down,” he said.

The former DP said young voters are more conscious of governance issues and are likely to make decisions that reflect the long-term interests of the country.

Gchagua called for the registration of at least six million young voters, saying their participation will be critical in determining the direction of the country in the upcoming polls.

He urged the youth to turn out in large numbers and take charge of their future through the ballot, adding that their voices would help push for reforms they have consistently demanded.

Gachagua linked the push for voter registration to the concerns raised by young people during the June 2024 Gen Z protests, saying they had demonstrated a clear desire for accountability, transparency and better governance.

He said the issues raised, including access to quality education, healthcare and adherence to the rule of law, can only be addressed if young people actively participate in elections.

The DCP leader also called on parents to encourage their children to register as voters, emphasising that civic participation should be a collective responsibility.

According to Gachagua, local electoral officials have already made progress in registering new voters in the area, but more effort is needed to meet the targets.

He said he had been briefed that about 105,000 people have so far registered, with a target of an additional 29,000 young voters in the constituency.

Gachagua urged local leaders to intensify awareness campaigns ahead of the mass voter registration exercise, calling on them to use all available platforms to reach eligible voters.

He added that he had personally ensured his family members were registered, noting that participation begins at an individual level.

The DCP leader reiterated his support for the Tuko Kadi initiative, describing it as a critical step in empowering young people to influence the country’s leadership and policy direction through the ballot.