Politician Benard Mabonga Waliuba from Wamono in Sirisia constituency……Photo/IP
By Alex Wekesa
NAIROBI
A vocal grassroots mobilizer and youth advocate, Bernard Mabonga Waliuba, popularly known as Mtu Kazi, has called on Kenyans — particularly the youth — to take voter registration seriously ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking to this writer, Mtu Kazi said meaningful change in Kenya can only happen when citizens actively participate in the democratic process.
“If we want a better Kenya, we must show up not just to complain on social media, but to register, vote, and hold leaders accountable,” he said.
He revealed plans to roll out a nationwide awareness campaign dubbed “Chukua Kura, Chukua Control ya Future” (Take Your Vote, Take Control of Your Future), aimed at encouraging young people to register and participate in elections.
Mtu Kazi reminded the youth that they form the majority of Kenya’s population and that their voice, expressed through the ballot, can reshape the country’s future.
“The youth make up more than 70 percent of this country’s population. If you don’t vote, someone else will decide your future for you,” he said.
He lamented that many young people have become disillusioned by politics, viewing it as a game for the rich or the elite.
However, he insisted that real change begins when citizens — especially youth — exercise their right to vote.
“Voter registration is not just a formality; it is your weapon of choice in a democracy,” he said. “The moment you register, you’ve already taken the first step toward change.”
Mtu Kazi urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and civil society organizations to intensify voter education, especially in universities and informal settlements where voter turnout has historically been low.
Turning to national unity, Mtu Kazi cautioned against tribal divisions and reminded Kenyans that the country belongs to all citizens.
“Kenya is a place for all — not for any specific ethnicity or region. We must stop dividing ourselves along tribal lines,” he said.
He called for a national dialogue that fosters inclusivity, equality and tolerance, warning that Kenya’s progress will remain elusive unless citizens move beyond ethnic politics.
“The dream of a united Kenya will only be achieved when we see each other as Kenyans first, not as members of tribes or political camps,” he said.
Mtu Kazi also condemned recent remarks allegedly made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, who reportedly celebrated the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
He described the remarks as “dangerous and disrespectful.”
“No leader should ever celebrate the loss of life, regardless of political differences. Governor Kahiga’s remarks were insensitive and unbecoming of a public officer,” he said, urging the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to act against leaders who make divisive statements.
On health reforms, Mtu Kazi criticized the Kenya Kwanza administration for politicizing the rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA), which replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
“The government should stop using SHA as a political tool. Health care is a right, not a privilege for those aligned to certain political parties,” he said, warning that political interference could undermine the program’s purpose.
Mtu Kazi further cautioned the government against turning SHA into “another avenue for corruption and political showmanship.”
“If implemented sincerely, the Social Health Authority could transform lives. But if not, it will only deepen Kenyans’ suffering,” he said.
Addressing party politics, Mtu Kazi defended ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, warning party members against undermining him.
“Some people in ODM must be reminded that Sifuna is not a pushover. As the Luhya community, we gave Sifuna to ODM on loan until 2027 — they must handle him with respect,” he said, half in jest.
He added that Sifuna enjoys strong grassroots support in Western Kenya and should not be underestimated.
“Sifuna has his own people and a place to lay his head. Let no one think they can push him around,” he said.
Mtu Kazi urged ODM leaders to resolve internal disputes maturely and focus on strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 polls.
He stressed the need for issue-based politics, saying Kenya’s democracy has stagnated due to personal attacks and tribal divisions.
“We cannot keep playing politics of insult and hatred. Leaders should compete on ideas — not who can shout the loudest,” he said.
He urged Kenyans to elect leaders based on integrity, competence, and development agendas, not handouts or tribal loyalty.
“Let us not be swayed by empty promises. We need leaders who can deliver — not those who only appear during campaigns,” he concluded.
