Ford Kenya Youth League decries 'use-and-dump' politics

The Ford Kenya Youth League has raised alarm over what it describes as a growing culture of "use-and-dump" politics within the party.

Led by Kimilili politician Fred Joshua, the youth leaders claimed that many young party supporters have been used as political mobilisers during election campaigns only to be sidelined once leaders secure elective positions.

Joshua said the league would soon hold a major press conference in Maanzoni, Machakos County, where it plans to unveil what he termed as "explosive revelations" concerning the treatment of youths within the party.

“We will address a press conference to shed more light on the matter. Expect explosive revelations,” Joshua said. 

The youth leaders expressed frustration over what they described as persistent neglect by senior party figures, saying many young people who invested their time, resources and energy in supporting the party have been left vulnerable, frustrated and emotionally drained.

According to Joshua, the party leadership has failed to fulfil promises of youth empowerment and inclusion, particularly in access to employment opportunities and government tenders.

“We expect the leaders to empower the youth, which they have failed. The 30 per cent that was promised to them has been sold to non-party members,” he added. 

The youth further said officials are inaccessible and unresponsive to ordinary members seeking assistance, jobs or opportunities for advancement.

The concerns emerge at a time when political parties across the country are under increasing pressure to demonstrate their commitment to youth empowerment amid rising unemployment and economic hardships facing young Kenyans.

Ford Kenya remains one of the country's oldest and most influential political parties. The party rose to prominence in the early 1990s under the leadership of the late Michael Kijana Wamalwa, becoming a formidable opposition force during Kenya's transition to multiparty democracy.

Over the years, the party has maintained a strong support base in Western Kenya, particularly in Bungoma and Trans Nzoia counties. Under the leadership of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, Ford Kenya has continued to play a significant role in regional and national politics.