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The Young and Emerging Leaders Advocacy Forum (YELAF) has postponed its scheduled visit to former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s Ichaweri residence, citing security concerns and the need for additional consultations.
YELAF Chairperson Samuel Kagwe said the group will announce a new date after completing internal planning and coordinating with the Office of the Fourth President.
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“The Young and Emerging Leaders Advocacy Forum will share a new date with members after further internal preparation and liaising with the office of the 4th President. We aim to expand the gathering to include more young and emerging leaders seeking mentorship and civic grounding,” Kagwe explained.
He added that although the group had largely met the required protocols, recent intelligence prompted the postponement.
“We had made progress in complying with all protocols, but new information led us to change plans. We received intelligence of a group planning to infiltrate us. The visit was initially scheduled for February 23, 2026,” he said.
YELAF member Gitau Wagatonye noted that the forum had acknowledged communication from the former president’s office and would follow the guidance provided.
“With the letter from Spokesperson Kanze Dena, they acknowledged our initiative and confirmed our inclusion in the communication process as we plan this visit. We anticipate rescheduling within the next two to three weeks,” Wagatonye said.
The forum stressed that the intended visit was meant for mentorship and to deepen young leaders’ understanding of Kenya’s history.
On Sunday, Uhuru Kenyatta clarified reports that a youth group planned to visit his private Ichaweri residence in Gatundu.
Through a statement signed by Communication Secretary Kanze Dena, the former president said he was aware of the proposed visit but could not host the group at this time.
“We encourage organisers of such initiatives to formally communicate with the Office in advance to allow arrangements for structured, peaceful, and meaningful dialogue,” Dena said.
The statement noted that no formal request regarding the visit had been received and that the organisers had not been identified.
However, it emphasized that Kenyatta remains open to engaging young people in a respectful and well-organized setting.
“Former President Kenyatta is willing to meet and exchange views in a dignified manner that fosters unity and mutual respect,” Dena added.
The office also commended Kenyan youth for their energy, innovation, and patriotism, highlighting their vital role in national discourse, while stressing that all engagement should be properly organized, peaceful, and formally communicated in advance.
“Kenya belongs to all of us. Let us always choose dialogue over disruption and engagement over division,” the statement concluded.
