Gen Z Pushes for Stronger Electoral Preparedness And Action Ahead of 2027

Macharia David 

Taifa leo news 

After a 2 days deliberation at a forum organized by religious organization in Kenya one voice came from the Kenya’s Gen Z and youth who command over 50,% of Kenyan voters ,the push for stronger electoral preparedness ahead of the 2027 General Election, calling for peaceful campaigns, impartial policing and greater protection of citizens’ rights.

The concerns emerged during the National Stakeholders Convention at Ufungamano House in Nairobi, where Christian and Muslim leaders, youth representatives and other stakeholders deliberated on measures needed to secure democratic, credible and peaceful elections.

Young participants raised concern over the use of goons and organised groups in political activities, warning that young people are often the most affected when political competition turns violent. They said such groups can create fear, disrupt businesses and civic activities, and expose young people to violence or draw them into confrontations that do not serve their interests.

Police conduct also featured prominently in the discussions, with participants raising concerns over reported cases of police brutality while recognising the responsibility of security agencies to maintain public order.

They called for a balanced approach in which officers enforce the law while respecting constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, expression and political participation.

Speaking to the writer several youths had a similar voice with Nicholas  who called for greater youth involvement in shaping the political agenda, saying young people should be treated as active participants rather than merely campaign crowds and voting numbers.

A Muslim faithful who wanted to remain anonymous stressed the need for a safe political environment where young Kenyans can express their views, participate in civic activities and make political choices without intimidation.

Michael a resident of Nairobi urged political leaders to focus on issues affecting young people, including jobs, economic opportunities, accountability and good governance.

The National Police Service, meanwhile, has assured stakeholders that it is preparing for the 2027 electoral period with an emphasis on professionalism, impartiality and accountability. Deputy Inspector-General of the Administration Police Service Dr Masoud Mwinyi, representing Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja, emphasised the need for security agencies to uphold the rule of law and respect human rights while maintaining public safety.

The police position provides an assurance to the youth and other stakeholders that security preparations should support, rather than restrict, peaceful participation in the electoral process.

The youth argued that election preparedness must therefore go beyond the technical work of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). They want early voter education, transparent electoral processes, effective dispute-resolution mechanisms and adequate security preparations.

They also called on political parties and their supporters to reject violence, discourage the mobilisation of goons and ensure campaigns are driven by policies and ideas rather than intimidation.

The discussions brought together the National Council of Churches of Kenya, Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, Evangelical Alliance of Kenya and the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims.

The central message from the youth was clear: a credible 2027 election will require more than a prepared IEBC. It will require responsible political actors, professional security agencies and a political environment where young Kenyans can participate freely, safely and peacefully..