The National Youth Movement has asked youths to vie for leadership role which will change their livelihoods as we head to the next general elections.
Speaking at a youth congress in Nakuru on Sunday, the movement dubbed ‘Voter bribery not with my vote' said it is unfortunate that majority of youths do not engage in active and competitive politics, a move that leads to protracted marginalisation of youth in the country.
The Centre for Multiparty Democracy programme manager Frank Mukwanja, said increased youth representation in circles of governance of policies and resources will be a driver to a progressive and empowered youthful folk.
"Youths in leadership should take lead in championing causes that can lead to empowerment. Youths currently comprise of 70 per cent of Kenya`s population and are an essential leverage for the country`s quest for sustainable development goals," Mukwanja said.
He added that the movement is pitched in a nationwide drive of conducting voter sensitisation of young people to learn how to advocate sustainable development causes in their communities and actively participate in leadership ahead of the oncoming general elections.
He said the movement has also developed gender policies that are aimed at spurring women in to leadership positions, further observing that these policies will be a departure avenue from the past where women and youth relied on nominations to county and national assemblies to effect significant change on issues pertinent to them.
However, he attributed wanting leadership and governance to voter bribery, saying voters are in dire need for civic education on the dangers of compromising on a diversity of election malpractices
"Majority of youths and women are prone to politicians` bribery during elections, and this negates the common agenda of progressive leadership as wrong individuals take up critical leadership positions," the programme manager said.
Gideon Keter, the National United Republic Party youth leader and president of youth senate said the forum is looking forward to having at least 100 MPs, 10 Senators, 10 Governors and at least 300 Members of County Assembly.
The forum has been moving bids on election sensitization in Nakuru, Nairobi, Narok, Kisumu, Uasin Gishu, Kericho and Busia Counties and officials are optimistic at how the initiative is fairing.