Kenyans Blast Activists Over ‘Tuko Kadi’ Ownership Claims

A section of Kenyans has criticised activists attempting to claim ownership of the viral “Tuko Kadi” movement, insisting that the slogan belongs to ordinary citizens and not any individual or group.

The backlash, largely playing out on social media, highlights growing concern that the initiative could lose its grassroots appeal if it is seen as being controlled or directed by a few voices.

Several Kenyans did not hold back, questioning both the tone and direction taken by some activists associated with the movement.

“I appreciate the energy of this movement, but their focus on the presidency feels narrow-minded. One person is never the sole architect of a nation’s destiny. We need to stop preaching against individuals and start advocating for systemic change through the ballot box,” one user, Maksudi Kamaliza, said.

Another user, Caleb, questioned the language used by activists, asking, “What does she mean by saying ‘we’ instead of I?”

Others expressed frustration with what they perceived as attempts to dictate political choices.

“Niko kadi lakini ya tutam, you don’t tell me where to vote unless you have been sent,” Maurice wrote.

Mike Atugo aimed for media coverage, stating, “Citizen TV Leo mumetuangusha. Hawa ni akina nani wamejaza kiburi hivi? Wakuje polepole. Tuko KADI ya Ruto tutam…”

Also Read: Fury as MPs Shoot Down Mudavadi’s Ksh 280M Office Upgrade

Similarly, Bilal criticised the platforming of activist messaging, saying, “To Citizen TV Kenya … please be responsible with your platform. Giving national airtime to individuals pushing slogans like ‘Ruto Must Go’ without substance lowers the level of public discourse.”

Hope Limo added a strongly worded reaction, “These idiots have been made to believe that Ruto has no votes to make him win the second term; the truth is Ruto is winning, and they will be here to witness it.”

Benard Junior also weighed in, questioning the implication of the messaging: “So she means the election will automatically come out that Ruto loses?”

‘Tuko Kadi’ Is a Citizens’ Initiative

Amid the criticism, a common thread emerged: many Kenyans insist that “Tuko Kadi” is a people-driven movement that should not be “owned” by activists or politicians.

The phrase, loosely meaning “we are registered to vote,” has grown into a powerful civic call encouraging Kenyans, especially young people, to register and participate in the 2027 General Election.

“This is not for any individual to own. It’s for all of us,” Facebook user @Haggai noted, echoing the broader sentiment.

The movement’s organic growth from social media posts to everyday conversations has been credited with its widespread appeal and impact.

Politicians Ride the Wave

Even as citizens push to keep the movement independent, politicians from across the political divide have begun adopting the slogan.

President William Ruto has already used the phrase in public remarks, signaling readiness for the next electoral contest.

“We are ready for you when the time comes… tuko kadi,” he said.

Other political figures and public personalities have also embraced the slogan, using it to rally supporters and show preparedness ahead of 2027.

However, this has raised concerns that the message could be diluted or repurposed for political campaigns.

Driving Voter Registration and Civic Awareness

Despite the controversy, many agree that the core value of “Tuko Kadi” lies in its role in promoting voter registration.

The initiative has transformed civic participation into a relatable and even entertaining movement, particularly among Gen Z, encouraging peer-driven mobilisation.

“There will be no change in our leadership if we don’t register and actually vote. Change happens at the ballot,” one Gen Z emphasised.

Also Read: Nairobi Water Announces Interruption in Several Estates

By turning voter registration into a visible and widely discussed topic, the movement is helping address voter apathy and encouraging more Kenyans to take part in shaping the country’s future.

As the debate continues, many Kenyans maintain that “Tuko Kadi” must remain a collective effort focused on participation rather than personalities.

For them, the message is simple: the power of the movement lies not in who started it, but in how many people it inspires to register and vote.

“It’s not about who owns it,” one commenter summed up. “It’s about making sure we all show up when it matters.”

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates

Voter verification portal image
PHOTO/File