People’s agenda calls for peaceful 2027 elections, warns against youth exploitation

The call was made on Tuesday, October 27, during the launch of People’s Agenda, also known as “Wasemavyo Wakenya,” an initiative organised by the Slums Outreach Programme (SOP) to promote civic education, citizen participation and accountability.

The launch, held at the Wangari Maathai Conference Room at August 7th Memorial Park in Nairobi, brought together civic representatives, Muslim leaders, representatives of the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) and other stakeholders.

Businessman Nick Ndolo, who is seeking the Embakasi South parliamentary seat, urged political leaders and their supporters to maintain peace before, during and after the elections, regardless of the outcome.

He called on leaders to avoid inciting supporters or using violence to advance their political ambitions, saying competition for elective positions should not divide Kenyans.

Ndolo identified youth unemployment and water shortages as some of the challenges facing residents of Embakasi South, saying more investment in job creation and access to essential services was needed.

He also warned that young people without economic opportunities could be exploited by politicians to cause chaos during election campaigns.

Ndolo called for economic empowerment programmes that would give young people opportunities to earn a living instead of being recruited into political violence.

People’s Agenda seeks to encourage voters to assess political candidates based on their policies, development plans and ability to address community needs rather than personalities and political affiliations.

Through civic education and community forums, the initiative intends to engage residents across all 47 counties, giving them an opportunity to raise concerns, scrutinise political manifestos and hold elected leaders accountable for their promises.

The organisers also want voters to understand their constitutional rights and reject political inducements in favour of informed electoral choices.

As the country prepares for the 2027 General Election, the initiative is urging political leaders, candidates and citizens to engage in constructive debate and respect the democratic rights of others.

Operating under the slogan “Your Voice. Your Views. Peace. Our Shared Future,” People’s Agenda aims to promote citizen participation and peaceful electoral competition.