By Kelvin Kibet |August 5, 2025
The Kikao Youth Movement, under the leadership of Chairperson and CEO Bright Shitemi, has formally joined the Democratic National Alliance (DNA), marking a significant political development aimed at advancing youth interests in Kenya’s political landscape.
The movement, which has been advocating for a party that aligns with the visions, values, and ideals of the younger generation, has identified DNA as the political vehicle best suited to carry forward its aspirations. This comes after several months of engagement described by Kikao as beginning with “cautious optimism.”
DNA, whose senior leadership includes Secretary General Barrack Muluka, has now welcomed the Kikao team into its fold. Six members of the movement have officially joined the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), taking on roles described as “impactful” and central to shaping the party’s future direction.
The new appointments are as follows:
Chepkoech Towett, Policy and Governance expert – Deputy Party Leader
Bright Shitemi, Kikao Chairperson – Deputy Chairman, NEC
James Okumu – Secretary, Political Affairs
Starlings Muchiri – Secretary, Public Policy and Economic Affairs
Eugene Ochieng – Director, Partnerships and Fundraising
Lisper Murugi – Member, National Executive Committee
As part of the transition, the two entities also launched the DNA Kikao Movement, a national campaign that aims to engage youth across all 47 counties. The initiative seeks to mobilize young people to join DNA and actively shape the party’s agenda.
“The DNA party will embrace all new generation leaders and aspirants,” a statement from Kikao read. “Welcoming youth into the party’s top organs is the first step to safeguard and promote their agenda.”
Party Leader Godfrey Kanoti welcomed the youth leaders into DNA, encouraging them to “dare to dream and take the mantle,” adding that the party remains open to all youth aspirants across all levels of leadership.
In his remarks, Mr. Bright Shitemi urged the new appointees to serve with commitment and professionalism, emphasizing their role in ushering in what he called the “Third Liberation for Kenya.”
Ms. Chepkoech Towett, in her capacity as Deputy Party Leader, called on more women and youth to get involved with DNA. She pledged to use her position to safeguard and champion their interests within the party.
The inclusion of the Kikao Youth Movement into DNA is seen as a strategic step toward revitalizing the party’s image and positioning it as a home for Kenya’s next generation of leaders.
About the Author
