The National Youth Council (NYC) has dismissed reports linking it to calls for the resignation of Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy Fikirini Jacobs following the alleged shooting of youth mobiliser Cecil Ouma.
In a statement on Monday, July 6, 2026, the Council said it was not a party to the allegations circulating in mainstream and digital media and had not sanctioned any campaign seeking the removal of the Principal Secretary.
“The National Youth Council is not a party to these allegations, nor have we sanctioned any calls for the removal of the Principal Secretary. These reports are inconsistent with our mandate and do not reflect the position of this institution,” the statement read.
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The Council reiterated that it remains a non-partisan State corporation committed to promoting the welfare and empowerment of all Kenyan youth.
Respect to the rule of law
NYC said it respects the rule of law and due process, adding that any grievances or accusations against public officials should be handled through established legal and institutional procedures.
“We believe that any grievances or accusations regarding the conduct of a public official should follow the established legal and procedural frameworks. NYC has no authority to demand the resignation of the Principal Secretary, nor do we intend to venture into matters that fall outside our statutory mandate,” the Council stated.
The Council also expressed concern over what it termed as false and unsubstantiated media reports, warning that the publication of unverified information could undermine public trust and heighten tensions.
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“While we acknowledge the critical role the media plays in informing the public and holding leaders accountable, we are deeply concerned by the publication of what are outright false and unsubstantiated allegations,” the statement said.
The Council urged media houses to exercise greater diligence in verifying information before publication and called on stakeholders to promote constructive dialogue based on factual accuracy.
“We respectfully ask the involved outlets to desist from spreading misinformation, particularly when it touches on the reputation of public institutions and their officers,” the statement added.
Cecil Ouma’s tragic death
Cecil Ouma, was shot dead in Nairobi under circumstances at a government engagement in Kariokor in which the Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs, Fikirini Jacobs, was in attendance.
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In a statement on Thursday, July 2, 2026, the PS expressed deep sorrow over the incident while extending condolences to the bereaved family, describing the death as both tragic and distressing.
“I extend my deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Cecil Ouma following his tragic and untimely death,” Fikirini stated.
“The circumstances surrounding Cecil’s death are deeply distressing and remain the subject of active investigations. No family should have to endure such a loss, and no young life should end in such tragic and confounding circumstances,” he added.
