Inside Politics

MP Daniel Manduku explains why Kenyans should not be overly excited by Niko Kadi trend

Wednesday 29th April, 2026 01:08 PM| By Mark Mwithaga

Nyaribari Masaba Member of Parliament Daniel Manduku, on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, expressed his sentiments on the trendy Niko Kadi campaign.

Speaking during a talk forum on a local media station, Manduku stated that people should not be excited about the voter registration drive.

He insisted that there was nothing new about the much-hyped exercise.

Nyaribari Masaba MP Daniel Manduku during a past function. PHOTO/https://www.facebook.com/daniel.manduku

The MP hinted that a significant number of young people did not participate in the 2022 elections.

New slogan won’t change anything

He remarked that the same could happen in 2027.

The leader, who is never shy to speak his mind, further asserted that what matters is the number of people who will turn out to vote.

“In every election cycle, there are new voters. More than 30 per cent of youths didn’t vote in the last election, and it is the same statistics that may be replicated across the country in 2027. Let’s not get excited about ‘Niko Kadi’ and others; they are good initiatives, but what matters is who will actually turn out to vote on election day and what the incentive will be,” Manduku commented.

He also remarked that Dr Peter Mbae, who was part of the round table discussion, shouldn’t think the new slogan will change anything.

Dr Peter Mbae at a past event. PHOTO/https://www.facebook.com/p/Dr-Peter-Mbae-Official-100063726273729/

“Dr Mbae speaks as if these new people will change the dynamics of voting. We have been there before and will be there,” the MP stated.

New inspired push ahead of 2027

The response by the ODM politician came after Mbae proclaimed that voter turnout would increase.

According to the doctor, people have had enough with the current government.

“Voter turnout will hit 70 per cent! People are frustrated with the current president and know it’s tough to oust Ruto. Fear of inaction will drive huge numbers, with party leaders mobilising crowds from all corners,” the DCP member explained.

File image of Dr Peter Mbae at a past event. PHOTO/https://www.facebook.com/p/Dr-Peter-Mbae-Official-100063726273729/

Niko Kadi drive took the political world by surprise in February 2026 as young people decided it was time for their voices to be heard.

The energy behind the initiative came from the aftermath of the 2024 Finance Bill protests, where youths decided they would no longer address political matters on social media.

The slogan has since then drawn opinions and criticism from politicians.