Youth turnout surges in Othaya as voter registration gains momentum
By Edwin Mbugua, April 4, 2026Youth turnout in Othaya Constituency is steadily gaining momentum, one week into the mass voter registration exercise spearheaded by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
The constituency is targeting 9,000 new voters, with a sharp focus on young people and first-time voters, as part of a broader national effort to strengthen the electoral roll ahead of the next general election.
Early indicators suggest a positive response on the ground, mirroring national figures where 344,316 voters have already been registered, including 8,378 from Nyeri County.
Driving the surge in Othaya is a wave of grassroots mobilisation led by Antony Gitonga through his “Niko Kadi – Othaya Edition” campaign.
The initiative has taken voter education to villages, trading centres and learning institutions, urging young people to take up their civic duty.
Speaking during a recent outreach forum, Gitonga challenged the youth to rethink their role in governance and national development.
“For a long time, young people have been described as apathetic, but that narrative must change. The ballot is where real power lies, and registering is the first step to claiming that power,” he said.
Voter numerical strength
He noted that the numerical strength of young voters, if fully harnessed, could significantly shape leadership outcomes and influence development priorities in the region.
The call has been echoed by Esther Waringa, who urged her peers to move from the sidelines to the centre of decision-making processes.
“Leadership is a reflection of the choices we make. If we want better leaders, then we must start by registering and showing up to vote. The responsibility lies with us,” she said.
Waringa also emphasised the need for informed participation, encouraging young voters to critically evaluate candidates and issues before casting their ballots.
Local organisers say the campaign will continue to intensify in the coming days, with more outreach activities planned across the constituency to ensure no eligible voter is left behind.
“We are not slowing down. The goal is to reach every village and every young person who is eligible. This is about securing our future,” said one of the campaign coordinators.