The move aims to absorb youth from risk of being mere spectators in a game where they should be key players.

The initiative, spearheaded by Embu businessman and politician Ken Mugo, aims to counter voter apathy among the youth and dismantle the culture of political manipulation. Addressing a youth gathering in Embu town which drew youth across the Mount Kenya Region, Mugo emphasized that the youth are the backbone of Kenya’s electorate and must seize their power to influence leadership.

“We cannot afford to sit back and complain about bad leadership if we are not voting. The future is in our hands, and we must register, mobilize, and vote wisely,” Mugo asserted.

He dismissed concerns by State agencies like the military and National Intelligence Service (NIS) saying they are out to intimidate political voices, terming it a  mere fear-mongering tactics meant to discourage civic participation.

Mugo further warned against the rampant use of bribery to sway youth votes, condemning politicians who exploit young people through handouts and alcohol.

“We have politicians who buy off young people and keep them intoxicated so that they don’t turn up at the polling stations. We must reject such leaders and their tricks,” he warned.

His sentiments resonated with Wakio Kamau's, a vocal youth leader from Kirinyaga County, who stressed that the youth must rise beyond being voting pawns and actively seek elective positions themselves.

“For too long, the youth have been reduced to cheerleaders in elections. We must now take the bold step of contesting leadership positions and proving that we have what it takes to govern,” Wakio urged.

Njambi Mutahi, another energetic voice in the movement, called for greater accountability from elected leaders. She challenged young voters to reject non-performing politicians and blacklist those who fail to deliver.

“The days of empty rhetoric are over. We need leaders who deliver, and if they don’t, we must ensure they don’t return to office,” she declared.

As the voter registration drive gains momentum, Mt. Kenya youth are demanding good leadership and accountability for those who have the responsibility now.

County Director of Meteorological Services Daniel Mbithi said, "morning rains as well as afternoon and night showers and thunderstorms are expected over most places".

It is also expected to be windy since strong north easterly to easterly winds with speeds exceeding 12.5 knots or 6.5m/s are expected to blow over most parts of Kitui county.

The maximum temperature range expected this week will range from 23°C to 32°C while the minimum temperature will be between 16°C and 22°C.

Ruku’s political journey is one of grit, persistence, and unyielding ambition. His rise to the Cabinet is not just a victory but a testament to a man who refused to stay down, a man who turned rejection into fuel, and failure into stepping stones. His story is nothing short of extraordinary.

He has a Master of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Nairobi, a Postgraduate Diploma in Diplomacy and International Relations from the same institution, and Bachelor of Commerce from the Catholic University of East Africa, specializing in Business Administration. 

He brings on board a cross-industry experience from the public sector, international industries and the private sector having been a Member of Parliament, worked with the Israeli government and various private and non-governmental agencies in Kenya, across Africa and beyond.

The 6.5-foot-tall politician has fought his way up from the trenches of failure. His political dream began in 2002 when he vied for the Nthawa Ward Councilor seat only to be rejected at the ballot. But Ruku was no quitter. In 2013, he aimed higher, gunning for the Siakago parliamentary seat. Again, the electorate shut the door on him.

Undeterred, he aligned with the Federal Party of Kenya (FPK) but still fell short of clinching the Mbeere North parliamentary seat. Then came 2017, a bruising year. He lost the Jubilee Party nomination for Embu Senator to Njeru Ndwiga. In a bold move, he switched gears, abandoning the senatorial race to make another attempt at the MP seat as an independent candidate. Yet again, he was defeated by incumbent Muriuki Njagagua. For many, that would have been the end of the road. But not for Ruku.

Then came 2022, the year his resilience bore fruit. Armed with lessons from past failures and a sharpened political strategy, Ruku ran on the Democratic Party (DP) ticket. Against all odds, he dethroned Njagagua, securing his long coveted parliamentary seat. His victory was was symbolic as it marked the triumph of persistence over despair.

Ruku’s journey to the Cabinet was not just about winning elections. It was about building the right alliances. His loyalty to President William Ruto dates back years, to the days when Ruto was the Minister of Agriculture. As the United Republican Party (URP) chairman in Embu County, Ruku played a pivotal role in grassroots mobilization, ensuring Ruto had a solid base in the region.

After his election in 2022 ,in Parliament, he became one of the Kenya Kwanza government’s fiercest defenders, absorbing criticism and championing Ruto’s policies with unmatched zeal. His vocal support did not go unnoticed, and when a Cabinet reshuffle loomed, his name was whispered in the corridors of power. Finally, the call came: Ruku was nominated as Cabinet Secretary public service Human Capital Development and Special Programs, replacing the ousted Justin Muturi.

Beyond politics, Ruku has left an indelible mark on education in Mbeere North. In just two and half years as MP, he has transformed schools that once had mud-walled classrooms into modern, tiled institutions. He championed a significant bursary increase, raising allocations from Ksh 5,000 to between KSh 8,000 and KSh 10,000. His initiative reduced the financial burden on struggling parents, allowing them to pay only KSh 1,300 per term for day school students. Even his political rivals acknowledge his impact.

Ruku’s nomination to the Cabinet has triggered political tremors in Mbeere North. With his parliamentary seat now vacant, the battle for succession is on. Heavyweights are already scrambling to fill the void, with the by-election on the way.

Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, a close ally of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has already hit the ground running. Yesterday his presence at EAPC B.A.T Church in Nthawa Ward signaled the beginning of Gachagua’s political machinery in the area, with former Deputy Speaker Steve Simba standing by his side.

Meanwhile, across the constituency in Muminji Ward, former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti made a grand entrance at Emmanuel ACK Gangara Church. The seasoned politician, who chairs the Devolution Empowerment Party (Bus Party), was flanked by key MCAs, including Newton Karish (Muminji), Lenny Mwaniki Masters (Kiambere), and Ngari Mbaka (Mavuria). Speculation is rife that Kivuti is grooming Karish to carry the Bus Party’s flag in the by-election, a strategic move ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial race.

Ruku, now a Cabinet Secretary nominee, is not taking a backseat either. He visited Jesus Flock Sanctuary Church in Siakago before leading a bursary issuance event. His entourage included Embu business community chair Mungatana Mwaniki, former Mbeere North MP aspirant Stephen Ngari M’Makindu, and environmental expert Konji Kwayo. Pundits say Ruku will be a key figure in whoever will succeed him.

The by-election is expected to be a high-stakes political brawl. Justin Muturi’s DP Party is also expected to field a candidate, Ruku will back his own successor, and Gachagua’s camp is gearing up for a battle. With Lenny Kivuti also positioning himself through the Bus Party, Mbeere North is set for a fierce political contest.

During the bursary event, Ruku welcomed President Ruto’s upcoming tour of the Mt. Kenya region and threw a challenge to critics: “If you think this government has done nothing, come to Mbeere North and see for yourself.”

From a struggling politician to a Cabinet Secretary, Geoffrey Ruku’s story is a powerful reminder that persistence and resilience always pay off.

Speaking to the press after a church service at AIPCA Kathangariri in Manyatta Constituency, the senator stressed the importance of maintaining decorum during the Head of State’s visit. He warned against political factions using the occasion to stage protests or air grievances in a disruptive manner.

“It is inappropriate to shout down leaders, especially when the President is in attendance. Those who do not wish to participate should simply stay home instead of causing disruptions,” he stated, urging residents to exercise restraint and maturity in their political expressions.

Senator Mundigi also highlighted the significance of the visit, noting that it presents an opportunity for the community to benefit from key development initiatives. He emphasized that national leaders visit counties to address pressing issues and launch projects that uplift citizens' livelihoods.

“The President is bringing important projects to our region, and this is a time for us to show our support and appreciation. Let us come out and welcome him warmly,” he urged, calling on Embu residents to focus on the long-term benefits of government engagements rather than short-term political disagreements.

The senator further noted that previous visits by the President had resulted in major gains for Embu, including infrastructural projects, agricultural subsidies, and enhanced service delivery. He encouraged the local leadership to work together in presenting key priorities that require government intervention.

Mundigi also took the opportunity to caution political leaders against inciting the public for personal or political mileage. He reiterated that leaders should set an example by promoting peaceful engagements and constructive dialogue with the government rather than fueling divisions.

He acknowledged that some residents may have grievances, but he urged them to use appropriate channels to voice their concerns. “If there are issues affecting the people, let us handle them through structured engagements rather than confrontations that could undermine our county’s development,” he added.

The senator also appealed to security agencies to ensure a smooth and peaceful visit by taking necessary measures to prevent any disruptions. He called for cooperation between local authorities and residents in upholding law and order throughout the event.

Speaking in her home turf at Ivovoa village, Kyangwithya West ward, during the burial ceremony of the late Felix Mutio, Ngilu confirmed she was firmly in the race. "If it is returning to continue serving you, I am able to do that because it is important for people to be served well.", said Ngilu.

The mourners gave her blessings to vie for the top elective seat in the county. 

On August 8, 2017 elections, former Governor Charity Ngilu won the election with 167741 votes. Her closest challenger was former senator David Musila with 113012 votes. 

Incumbent governor Dr Julius Malombe was the third in 2017 race with 74006 votes. He recaptured the coveted seat in 2022.