Stakeholders from government ministries, constitutional commissions, security apparatus, civil society, and international partners have called for increased collaboration to promote political civility, peace, and accountability ahead of Kenya's 2027 General Elections. The call was made during a high-level multi-agency engagement forum in Nairobi. Key representatives emphasized the need for political actors to refrain from hate speech, political violence, and ethnic polarization. They stressed that lasting peace cannot exist without justice and constitutional compliance.
National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) Chairman Bishop Dr. Kepha Nyamweya Omae highlighted the importance of breaking institutional silos to safeguard the country's electoral process. He emphasized that peace and justice are interdependent and crucial for national cohesion and integration. Dr. Omae expressed concern over emerging red flags, including disruptions at political rallies and the use of divisive language. He warned that NCIC, in collaboration with the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), is tracking perpetrators exploiting digital platforms for hate speech and misinformation.
Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) Vice-Chairperson Betty Okero called on independent institutions and law enforcement agencies to exercise strict oversight and equal enforcement of the law. She urged them to protect the vulnerable rather than penalize those demanding accountability. Okero emphasized that Kenya's democratic architecture is under strain due to rising political polarization, intimidation, and hate speech. She stressed the need for the rule of law to protect citizens' rights.
The National Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to early planning and seamless security coordination ahead of the polls. Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, representing Inspector General Douglas Kanja, stated that proper planning is critical to achieving a peaceful environment and justice. He emphasized that early planning will ensure a smooth and secure electoral process.
Political Parties Liaison Committee (PPLC) Chairperson Evans Misati urged political leaders to lead by example and adopt the proposed Political Decency, Peace, and Accountability Charter. He emphasized that civility is not the absence of conflict but the discipline that keeps conflict from turning into destruction. Misati appealed to Kenyan voters to reject politicians who incite violence and to hold them accountable for promoting peace.
International partners, including the Royal Danish Embassy, reiterated their support for Kenya's democratic journey. Joseph Kimani stressed the fundamental link between human rights, peace, and sustainable development. He emphasized that elections, peace, and human rights are interdependent and mutually reinforcing. Kimani noted that sustainable development and credible elections cannot take place without peace and respect for human rights.
The forum concluded with a joint commitment by stakeholders to continuously monitor compliance with the Peace Charter and periodically report progress publicly ahead of the 2027 polls. The stakeholders, including NCIC, PPLC, and civil society organizations, aim to promote a peaceful and accountable electoral process. They will work together to ensure that the 2027 elections are free from violence, intimidation, and hate speech.
Key points
- Stakeholders call for multi-agency collaboration to promote peace and accountability ahead of Kenya's 2027 General Elections.
- NCIC Chairman emphasizes the importance of breaking institutional silos to safeguard the country's electoral process.
- International partners reiterate their support for Kenya's democratic journey, stressing the link between human rights, peace, and sustainable development.
