Low voter turnout sparks alarm as leaders urge youth to register

A worrying decline in voter registration numbers has triggered a wave of concern among Kenya’s political leaders, with calls growing louder for the young generation to take charge of their democratic future.

Leaders from Nairobi County, led by businesswoman Agnes Kagure and Geoffrey Owino of the Kenya Patriot Party, are urging Gen Z and millennial voters to rise up, register, and make their voices count.

“Young people, for you to bring change, you must first have the voter’s card. That is your power, your voice, and your future,” said Mr. Owino.

The leaders challenged youth to go beyond social media trends and content creation, to use their platforms to mobilize peers for the ongoing IEBC continuous voter registration exercise.

At the same time, they called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to step up its efforts by making the registration process easier, accessible, and transparent for all Kenyans.

“IEBC must take this process to the people — visit social spaces, churches, estates, and youth gatherings. Civic education and voter sensitization must be intensified if we are to restore trust and participation,” noted Ms. Kagure.

The remarks came during the official unveiling of Mr. Owino as the Kenya Patriot Party candidate for Kariobangi North Ward, following the passing of the late Joel Munuve.

The leaders emphasized that the future of Kenya lies in the hands of young voters — and that meaningful change begins with registration, participation, and leadership accountability.