The IEBC led by Commissioners Dr. Alutalala Mukhwana and Ann Nderitu, CBS, in collaboration with the Centre for Multiparty Democracy, Kenya, today held a Youth Dialogue Forum in Kirinyaga County.
The forum brought together over 200 young people and was graced by the Member of Parliament for Kirinyaga Central Constituency and host, Hon. Joseph Gachoki Gitari, Hussein Allasow and the County Commissioner for Kirinyaga.
The Member of Parliament for Kirinyaga Central Constituency and host, Hon. Joseph Gachoki Gitari commended the Commission for strengthening public confidence in Kenya’s constitutional order. He particularly praised IEBC for its professionalism and dedication during the recently concluded by elections, noting that by elections are complex national exercises that require thorough preparation, effective coordination, transparency and firmness of character.
He called on all stakeholders to uphold peaceful electoral processes, stressing that acts of hooliganism and violence that undermine democracy must be firmly rejected. He concluded by underscoring that elections must always be conducted in accordance with the law and that their outcomes must reflect the free will of the people.
Commissioner Alutalala who is the Chairperson, Voter Education, Partnerships, Communication and Stakeholder Engagement Committee observed that there is often a perceived tension between young people and the older generation, with narratives suggesting that the youth are energetic and fast moving while older leaders are viewed as outdated or disconnected. He described such perceptions as worrying, emphasizing that both youth and experience are valuable. He noted that while youth is a spark full of energy, wisdom is a steady flame, and the two must complement each other rather than compete.
The Commissioner assured participants that the Commission was present to listen. He encouraged them to speak candidly about what they would like the Commission to improve or address. He added that he would take note of their concerns so that there could be meaningful responses and continued dialogue.
He urged the youth to seek accurate information about electoral processes and avoid spreading misinformation, cautioning that being misinformed can mislead others. He emphasized the importance of continuous engagement, verification of information and constructive participation in democratic processes.
Commissioner Ann Nderitu stated that the engagement was focused on elections and enhancing young people’s participation in governance, particularly through voter registration. She emphasized that registration as a voter is the first and most important step in participating in governance. She urged young people not only to register but also mobilize their peers who are not yet registered, stressing that meaningful participation in governance begins with being a registered voter.
She reiterated earlier remarks that youth is a stage in life and part of a natural progression. She noted that everyone is born a child, grows into youth, and later matures into adulthood. She called on young people to respect older generations, observing that older individuals have experienced stages of life that the youth are yet to go through. At the same time, she acknowledged that each generation faces different circumstances and opportunities.
The Commissioner encouraged young people to make productive use of their youthful years, describing them as foundational and energy filled years that should be invested wisely. She cautioned against wasting this critical period, noting that failure to build a strong foundation could perpetuate cycles of poverty and disadvantage into the next generation. She urged them to take responsibility for shaping both their personal futures and that of the country.
IEBC Ag Commission Secretary/CEO Moses Sunkuli, OGW, thanked the young people for their strong turnout, stating that it was a great honour and privilege to engage with the youth of Kenya and Kirinyaga County. He noted that the forum was not just another meeting, but a call to action, adding that vijana wanawajibika na wameamua kuchukua hatua mwafaka.
He observed that young people form the largest voting bloc in the country and are the most connected generation, describing them as the most powerful force in shaping the direction of Kenya’s democracy. He emphasized that the future of the country will not be determined without them, but by them.
The CEO expressed sincere appreciation to the Centre for Multiparty Democracy Kenya for sponsoring and supporting the engagement. He acknowledged the organisation’s commitment to strengthening democratic participation, especially among young people, noting that its efforts play a critical role in deepening Kenya’s democratic culture. He further commended the partnership and called for continued collaboration to achieve shared objectives.
He informed participants that the Commission has advertised temporary positions for the upcoming Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration exercise, including Voter Registration Assistants, Registration Clerks and ICT Clerks. He described these opportunities as a chance to safeguard democracy and encouraged young people to apply and take an active role in the electoral process.
The CEO also called on all eligible young people aged 18 years and above who have not registered as voters to do so, noting that Continuous Voter Registration is ongoing and that the Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration exercise will soon be launched. He encouraged them not only to register, but also to mobilize their friends, classmates and colleagues to register, stressing that democracy grows stronger when young people participate fully in all electoral processes.
Addressing the role of digital platforms, he cautioned against the rapid spread of misinformation and urged the youth to use their online platforms responsibly by sharing verified information, challenging false narratives and contributing to an informed and confident electorate.
In conclusion, he noted that the 2027 General Election is fast approaching and encouraged them to embrace meaningful participation and youth leadership, reminding them that democracy, the future and responsibility belong to them.
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