Representatives of the People’s Agenda civic initiative have urged Kenyans to reject political violence and demand accountable leadership ahead of the 2027 General Election, warning that youth unemployment and political manipulation threaten peaceful electoral competition.
The representatives made the call 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 was held on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at the Wangari Maathai Conference Room at August 7th Memorial Park in Nairobi, bringing 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, called on political leaders and their supporters to maintain peace before, during and after the elections, regardless of the outcome.
He said political competition should not divide Kenyans, urging leaders to avoid inciting their supporters or using violence to advance their ambitions.
Ndolo also identified water shortages and youth unemployment as some of the major challenges facing Embakasi South residents, pledging to pursue reforms and development initiatives to address the problems if elected.
He linked unemployment to the vulnerability of some young people to political exploitation, arguing that limited economic opportunities can push them into violence and political goonism.
Ndolo called for greater investment in job creation and economic empowerment, saying young people should be given opportunities to earn a living rather than being recruited to cause chaos during political contests.
The People’s Agenda initiative seeks to move political campaigns away from personality-driven politics towards issue-based leadership, where voters assess candidates on their policies, development plans and ability to address community needs.
Through civic education, community forums and citizen-led engagements, the organisers intend to give residents across all 47 counties a platform to raise concerns, scrutinise political manifestos and hold elected leaders accountable for their promises.
The initiative will also encourage voters to understand their constitutional rights and reject political inducements in favour of informed electoral choices.
Stakeholders at the launch emphasised the need for responsible political engagement and national cohesion as the country prepares for the next general election.
The organisers urged Kenyans to exercise their democratic rights peacefully, engage in constructive debate and reject violence throughout the electoral process.
Operating under the slogan “Your Voice. Your Views. Peace. Our Shared Future,” People’s Agenda aims to amplify citizens’ concerns and promote a more inclusive, accountable and peaceful electoral process in 2027.
