After a 13-year hiatus, the Government has formally launched preparations for the National Youth Council (NYC) elections, marking a major step toward strengthening youth engagement in governance. The NYC elections, last held in 2012, are being revived under the Kenya Kwanza administration’s pledge to foster democratic participation and inclusive representation among the youth.
Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs Fikirini Jacobs, speaking at the State Department for Youth Affairs in Nairobi, confirmed the Ministry had received formal approval from the Cabinet Secretary to proceed with the electoral process. “This gives us the go-ahead to begin structured, inclusive, and transparent preparations,” he said.
The NYC, established under the National Youth Council Act, serves as the official body representing the interests of Kenyan youth. The Council comprises eight elected members and eight others nominated by the Cabinet Secretary. The revival of elections follows a failed 2023 attempt to replace polls with a selection model an idea ruled unconstitutional for violating Article 55 of the Constitution, which affirms the youth’s right to political participation.
With Cabinet approval granted in July 2025, the Ministry now has both the mandate and resources to deliver a credible election. The polls will unfold in four phases: nomination at the grassroots level, ward elections for 8,700 delegates, constituency-level voting to select 580 representatives, and a final vote at the National Youth Congress to elect eight NYC members.
To be eligible, candidates must be under 35 years of age, possess at least a secondary school certificate, and meet integrity standards outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution.
Jacobs emphasized civic education as a top priority to ensure informed participation and called on both public and private stakeholders to support the process financially and logistically. “This is your time to show up, to vote, to lead,” he told the youth.
President William Ruto was also praised for endorsing the initiative and approving the budget, underscoring his administration’s commitment to youth inclusion. The long-overdue elections are expected to revitalize Kenya’s youth governance framework and inspire a new generation of ethical, visionary leaders.
