Mr. Yunis Dekow, a journalist and media strategist from Garissa County, quietly submitted his expression of interest to become Kenya’s next Deputy President following the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua in October.
In a letter dated 10 October 2024 and addressed to President William Ruto, Dekow, who serves as Director of Innovation and Strategy at Kulan Post, outlined his vision for Kenya, emphasizing integrity, public service, and the need to elevate underrepresented voices in national leadership.
Under Kenyan law, the President has the constitutional mandate to nominate a new Deputy President, subject to approval by the National Assembly.
Citizens, however, are legally allowed to express interest in the role by formally communicating with the Head of State, as Dekow did.
“I firmly believe that my experience and perspective will allow me to contribute meaningfully to your administration, helping to advance the vision of a united, prosperous, and equitable Kenya,” he wrote to Dr. William Ruto.
Mr. Dekow, born in 1996 and raised in Garissa, has spent more than a decade working in journalism and media strategy.
His career spans nine radio stations, two newspapers, and three television networks across East Africa, including work with high-profile institutions such as the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
He also founded Royal Halann, a Nairobi-based media consultancy, and currently serves as Treasurer of the Crime Journalists Association of Kenya.
Dekow has affirmed that he meets all the constitutional requirements for the office of Deputy President.
He noted that he is a Kenyan citizen by birth, holds a university degree, and upholds the leadership and integrity standards outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution.
He emphasized that his professional and personal record demonstrates the accountability and commitment expected of the holder of the second-highest office in the country.
Political analyst Solomon Mogere describes Dekow’s application as “an early sign of a generational shift in Kenyan politics.”
He underscored that his candidacy reflects the growing appetite for youthful, reform-minded leaders.
The letter was submitted nearly a year ago, the lack of immediate media attention indicates the challenges faced by young and marginalized aspirants seeking top political roles.
Mr. Dekow belongs to the Somali community, a group historically excluded from the country’s highest offices.
At 27, Dekow represents a new wave of leadership, young, diverse, and determined people ready to shape the future of Kenya.
His bid, though overlooked at the time, is now resurfacing as a reminder that the country’s political landscape is slowly but steadily opening to voices beyond the traditional power centers.
