ODM MP Harun urges youth to register as voters ahead of 2027 polls

Garissa woman representative aspirant Umulkheir Harun speaking to the press. /STEPHEN ASTARIKO

ODM-nominated MP Umulkheir Harun interacts with women from Garissa township during the empowerment program at the Garissa vocational center. /STEPHEN ASTARIKO

ODM nominated MP Umulkheir Harun with  Mariam Hassan while holding an envelope containing the money /STEPHEN ASTARIKO

ODM nominated MP Umulkheir Harun urged youth in Garissa and nationwide to register as voters during the ongoing drive ahead of the 2027 general election.

Harun spoke in Garissa town on Thursday after a women and youth empowerment programme under her Umi Harun Foundation.

The youthful legislator, who is eyeing the Garissa woman representative seat, called on eligible youth to register with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.

“The youth form the largest segment of our population, yet turnout has historically lagged behind older age groups. This has created a cycle where young people feel underrepresented. We must change this, and that time is now,” she said.

She cited the growing influence of the Tuko Kadi initiative—Sheng for ‘We have the card’—a Gen Z-led campaign encouraging young Kenyans to acquire voter cards.

Launched in mid-February, the initiative has grown from an online trend into a nationwide mobilisation drive aimed at boosting youth participation in elections.

Harun praised the movement for energising civic engagement among young people.

“The mantra has helped spread the message and create excitement. Many youth who had not registered are now stepping forward,” she said.

She acknowledged that voter apathy among young people has long been a challenge in Kenya, attributing it to disillusionment with political systems seen as unresponsive to issues such as unemployment, education and economic opportunities.

“In the past, politics has often been seen as the domain of older figures, leaving young people feeling sidelined. Campaign messaging has not always resonated with them.”

However, Harun expressed optimism that attitudes are shifting, noting that young people are increasingly issue-driven rather than influenced by traditional factors such as clan affiliations.

“The youth are no longer interested in clan divisions. What matters is leadership with a proven track record and a genuine commitment to improving lives,” the ODM-nominated MP said.

She emphasised that voter registration is not just about turnout but about fostering civic responsibility.

“Participation in elections should be seen as a powerful tool for shaping the future,” Harun added.

She also highlighted the government’s youth-focused Nyota programme, saying investment in young people is key to national development.

“Any serious government must prioritise the youth. When empowered, their impact on society is immense,” she said.