National Youth Council elections postponed indefinitely over compliance concerns

The National Youth Council elections scheduled for July 5-26, 2026, have been postponed indefinitely to allow for full compliance with legal and administrative requirements and to safeguard the integrity, credibility and fairness of the electoral process, the National Steering Committee has announced.

In a statement, the Committee said the decision was made after careful deliberations with the relevant authorities overseeing the election.

“The National Steering Committee (NSC) on the National Youth Council elections wishes to inform all delegates, candidates, stakeholders, development partners, and the public that the elections, initially scheduled to take place from July 5-26, 2026, pursuant to Gazette Notice No. 5586 of April 17, 2026, have been postponed until further notice,” the Committee said.

According to the Committee, the postponement is necessary to ensure compliance with outstanding statutory prerequisites before the electoral process proceeds.

These include a nationwide voter education programme, completion of voter and candidate registration, appointment and training of election officials, and deployment of an election management system in line with the National Youth Council (Election of Certain Council Members) Regulations, 2021.

“The NSC is acutely aware of the profound significance these elections hold for Kenya's youth and acknowledges the substantial commitment, preparation, and resources already invested by aspirants and partners,” the Committee said.

While regretting the disruption caused, the Committee maintained that the decision was necessary to ensure a credible and transparent process.

“While we regret the inconvenience and uncertainty this development may cause, we are confident that this measured approach is essential to reinforcing public trust and delivering an election that is beyond reproach,” it said.

The Committee expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their patience and understanding during the preparatory phase.

“The Committee extends its sincere apologies for any disruption caused and expresses its profound gratitude to all stakeholders for their patience, understanding, and steadfast support during this preparatory phase,” it added.

The National Youth Council (NYC), which operates under the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, is a semi-autonomous government agency mandated to amplify youth voices and promote youth participation in political, social and economic development.