PS Fikirini Jacobs on the spot over billboard thanking Ruto, Raila for appointment

Youth Affairs Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs has found himself trending online just weeks into his new role.

A video shared on his official Facebook page captured a billboard featuring Jacobs’ image alongside congratulatory and appreciative messages.

The billboard, which sparked a flurry of reactions, also thanked President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga for Jacobs' appointment.

“Many thanks my dear comrades of the Ruthless Focus. This is for God and Country!” read the caption accompanying the video.

The billboard message itself stated, “Congratulations Fikirini Jacobs for your appointment as Principal Secretary, State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy,” and concluded with, “Thank you H.E. President William Ruto and H.E. Raila Odinga for the appointment.”

The gesture quickly ignited debate across social media.

On X (formerly Twitter), users voiced concern over what they saw as self-congratulatory politics.

“Welcome to Kenya, where politicians erect ‘thank you billboards’ after being appointed,” wrote user Duke of Othaya.

Sir James added, “Someone is given an opportunity to show that youths are ready for leadership and mean well for the country, then goes ahead and does this. Absolutely diabolical and a slap on the face of young people.”

Another user, Watu Saba, speculated, “You'll be surprised that public money was used to put it up.”

Harrison Chiruka could not hide his disappointment: "Spending money on a billboard to pass a message that can be done through a text or a lunch meeting at most is diabolical."

However, the reception was warmer on Facebook, supporters flooding the comment section with encouragement.

“You have inspired us as youths. One can become anything, so long as one puts their trust in the Lord and works hard,” wrote Mwarogo Chidari.

Alice Masudi wrote: "Comrade you have a bright future… keep the focus"

Newly appointed PS for Youth Affairs and the Creative Economy, Fikirini Jacobs, has erected a billboard thanking President William Ruto and Raila Odinga for his appointment. pic.twitter.com/ioRETKXIWR

— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) May 17, 2025

Fikirini Jacobs is a youthful leader from the Coast region with a background in community organizing and civic activism.

He previously served as a youth leader and has been actively involved in political mobilization and grassroots development.

Before he was appointed Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, he served as a county executive for youth development and led several initiatives connecting young entrepreneurs with government opportunities.

A vocal advocate for youth inclusion in governance, Jacobs previously chaired the National Youth Council and maintained close political ties with both President Ruto's UDA party and Raila Odinga's ODM throughout his career.