Matiang’i offers advice to Gen Zs as IEBC cries of voter registration apathy
Former Interior Ministry Cabinet Secretary and 2027 presidential contender Fred Matiang’i has sent a word of advice to Gen Zs, urging them to take the ongoing voter registration exercise seriously if they truly want change in leadership.
Speaking during a public function on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, Matiang’i expressed concern over the low turnout being witnessed across the country, as confirmed by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) data.
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This comes after former nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba criticised the IEBC for neglecting to prioritise Generation Z in its ongoing voter registration campaign.
Matiang’i sends a message to the Gen Zs
The former CS, who has in recent months stepped up his political activities, said Kenya’s youth cannot demand change while ignoring their civic responsibility.
“The demonstrations were meant to achieve change, and the final point of that change will be at the ballot box, and to reach there, we must get votes,” Matiang’i said.
He reminded the youth that while street activism had played a role in awakening national consciousness, the ultimate shift in governance would only happen through the ballot.
“For those who want a different Kenya, the chance is now. Register, get your voter’s card, and prepare to participate in shaping the country’s future,” he said, calling the ongoing registration drive a test of civic maturity.
Also watch: Senator Nyutu explains why IEBC is experiencing low voter registration turnout.
IEBC cites budget cuts
Earlier in the day, IEBC Chief Executive Officer Marjan Hussein Marjan told a parliamentary committee that financial constraints had affected the commission’s ability to conduct voter education and mobilisation exercises in rural areas. He said the commission’s budget had been significantly reduced, making it difficult to reach unregistered citizens at the grassroots.
“Every MD was required to reduce the budget by 4.5%. Our budget was reduced by Ksh61.7 to Ksh57.3 billion,” Marjan said, adding that the cutbacks had directly impacted voter sensitisation campaigns and roadshows.
According to Marjan, the IEBC is relying more on partnerships with counties, youth groups, and faith-based organisations to spread awareness about the registration exercise.
However, he maintained that the commission remains committed to achieving its national registration targets ahead of the 2027 polls.
Matiang’i urged young Kenyans not to let financial or logistical hurdles discourage them from registering. He said Kenya’s future depends on active participation, not apathy.
His remarks have drawn widespread attention, particularly among youth movements and civil society organisations, which have been pushing for higher voter turnout in the upcoming elections.
