Published on March 26, 2026 by Kariuki Mwangi
Last Updated on 1 week by Kariuki Mwangi
A wave of political energy is sweeping across Nairobi as a section of city leaders throw their support behind the ongoing nationwide “Niko Kadi” voter registration campaign, urging young people to take charge of their future by registering as voters in large numbers.
While the initiative spans the entire country, Nairobi is currently in focus due to the active online involvement of some local leaders.
Among those backing the campaign are five influential Nairobi leaders—George Aladwa, Wilfred Odalo, Stazo Omung’ala, Brian Itenya and Antony Kimemia—who have intensified grassroots campaigns aimed at mobilizing Gen Zs and millennials to register and actively participate in elections.
Niko Kadi Momentum Gains Ground
The Niko Kadi initiative has quickly evolved into a youth-driven civic movement, urging eligible Kenyans to acquire voter cards and shape leadership from the grassroots to the presidency.
The leaders emphasized that voter registration is not just a civic duty, but a powerful tool for accountability and representation.
Speaking during separate engagements across the city, the five leaders urged Nairobi’s “special groups”—particularly first-time voters—to seize the moment and ensure their voices are heard in future elections.
Leaders Eyeing Bigger Political Roles
Makadara MP George Aladwa, a seasoned politician and former Mayor of Nairobi, has declared his intention to vie for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat. A two-term MP, Aladwa has positioned himself as a key contender, banking on his long-standing experience in city politics.
Mabani Ward MCA Wilfred Odalo, who also chairs the Finance and Budget Committee in the Nairobi County Assembly, is preparing to contest the Mathare parliamentary seat. Recent opinion polls place him ahead of other aspirants, with his performance record ranking him among the top MCAs in the capital.
Upper Savannah MCA Stazo Omung’ala, currently serving as the Deputy Majority Whip in the County Assembly, is widely expected to vie for the Embakasi East parliamentary seat. Though yet to make a formal declaration, early projections indicate strong support should he enter the race, particularly in the absence of incumbent Babu Owino.
Meanwhile, Harambee Ward MCA Antony Kimemia—popularly known as “Sony”—has declared his bid for the Makadara parliamentary seat. A three-term MCA with a solid grassroots network, Kimemia is expected to be a formidable contender in what is shaping up to be a competitive race.
Backing Ruto’s Development Agenda
Interestingly, the four leaders—associated with ODM politics and Jubilee—have expressed support for President William Ruto’s second-term bid, citing his administration’s focus on equitable development across counties.
They noted that ongoing national projects are being distributed more inclusively, regardless of past voting patterns—a shift they described as a positive departure from previous regimes.
Youth Leaders Join the Call
Adding his voice to the growing momentum, UDA youthfully nominated MCA Brian Itenya has also called on young people to turn up in large numbers during the ongoing Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission voter registration exercise. Itenya, a staunch supporter of UDA and President William Ruto, emphasized the importance of youth participation in shaping the country’s leadership.
He noted that the current administration has made significant strides in delivering on its promises, particularly in development projects across counties, and urged voters to consider continuity.
According to him, registering as a voter is the first step in ensuring that young people have a direct say in the country’s future and leadership direction.
Call to Action
Their unified message remains clear: register, participate, and decide your future.
As the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission continues its voter registration exercise, leaders across the political divide are urging Nairobi youth to move beyond apathy and take part in shaping leadership at all levels.
With the Niko Kadi campaign gaining nationwide momentum, and Nairobi now in focus, the city’s Gen Zs and millennials are being called on to play a decisive role in shaping the future of leadership from the grassroots to the presidency.
