Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has called on young people across Nyanza to take the lead in mobilising voter registration both offline and online, saying the future of Kenya’s democracy lies in their hands.
Wandayi said voter registration is the foundation of political and economic empowerment and urged youth to use social media platforms to drive awareness and turnout.
He was speaking on Sunday at the Holy Trinity Rang’ala Catholic Church in Sidindi Ward, Siaya County.
He said that increasing the voter numbers will strengthen the community’s bargaining power at any national decision-making table.
“The power of the nation is fought using votes. Voter registration has already started, and I want the young people to take this campaign to social media, where there are experts, so that everyone can go out and register. That is how we shape the future we want,” Wandayi said.
Wandayi noted that the Nyanza region currently has about 2.2 million registered voters, distributed as follows: Kisumu (600,000), Homa Bay (550,000), Siaya (530,000), and Migori (470,000).
He challenged local leaders, civil groups, and young influencers to mobilise their peers, adding that the four counties could easily register an additional 800,000 new voters during the current exercise.
“If we can reach three million voters in these four counties, that gives our region real bargaining power and a stronger voice at the national table,” he emphasised.
He added, “Let’s make voter registration a movement. Encourage your friends, families, and followers online to get registered.”
The CS said he would personally lead the drive and work with fellow leaders to ensure no eligible person is left out.
Beyond voter registration, Wandayi also urged residents to protect public infrastructure and promote local investment.
He said security agencies were on high alert to curb vandalism of electricity infrastructure, which he termed a serious threat to development.
“It costs the government a lot to extend power to our villages. We must protect these gains,” he said.
Suba South MP Caroline Omondi echoed Wandayi’s call, particularly appealing to young Kenyans to take voter registration seriously.
“Those calling for change should use the ballot, which is the democratic and peaceful way,” he said.
The appeal comes as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) intensifies its nationwide voter registration drive ahead of the 2027 General Election, targeting millions of new voters, especially youth who have just attained voting age.
