TO THE POLLS OP-ED: Kenyan elections — empower the youth instead of inciting violence

have made attempts to urge the youth to choose peace via a series of live streams focused on “tolerance, building bridges and active citizenship”.

Indeed, these efforts are an encouraging sign that there is some shift from the status quo. Such efforts should be reinforced, through behavioural change campaigns, and income generation initiatives, but there is also a clear need to build just and democratic institutions and civic spaces that allow the youth to meaningfully engage in politics, thereby promoting sustainable peace.

Such institutions could perhaps strengthen the rule of law and accountability, ensuring that any voter dissatisfaction is addressed through a well-structured, just and independent institution that can uphold democracy and investigate any claims of undemocratic electoral processes, to the merriment of the youth.

In addition to holding political leaders accountable for inciting youth violence, civil society has a large role to play in pushing for and supporting the development of institutions and spaces for youth participation. Political leaders, on the other hand, ought to share the decision-making table with the youth, acknowledging them as agents of change through policy making, as opposed to a means to personal power-driven gain.

As we ponder all these recommendations, we urge all stakeholders to play their role in promoting peace and encouraging youth participation in positive political engagement. As for the youth, heed caution and play an empowered role in advocating the change you wish to see.

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