NCCK Calls for Public Participation, Accountability and Peace Ahead of Elections
The appeal was made during a stakeholders’ dialogue convened to review findings from community engagements on the implementation of the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP).
Photo: Courtesy.
By Anneth Chepng’etich
The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has called for greater public participation in development planning, prudent management of public resources and peaceful political engagement as the country prepares for the next General Election.
The appeal was made during a stakeholders’ dialogue convened to review findings from community engagements on the implementation of the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP). The forum brought together community members, civil society organisations, religious leaders, women, youth representatives and other stakeholders to discuss development priorities and governance issues affecting local communities.
The discussions were informed by views collected during public participation forums held across the county, with participants evaluating progress in implementing the CIDP and identifying areas requiring greater government attention.
Stakeholders Demand Inclusive Development
Participants stressed that the County Integrated Development Plan should be driven by the needs and aspirations of residents, urging county governments to ensure that public participation remains meaningful throughout the planning and implementation process.
They said development projects should be implemented transparently and equitably to improve service delivery and address the priorities identified by local communities.
“The CIDP should reflect the needs and priorities of the people. Public resources must be managed transparently, and development projects should benefit every citizen,” one stakeholder said during the dialogue.
The forum also underscored the importance of accountability in the management of public funds, calling on leaders to strengthen oversight mechanisms and ensure taxpayers receive value for money through effective implementation of development programmes.
Religious Leaders Appeal for Peaceful Politics
With political activity expected to intensify ahead of the next elections, NCCK and other religious leaders urged Kenyans to safeguard the country’s peace by rejecting political intolerance, hate speech and violence.
They warned that divisive rhetoric and incitement threaten national cohesion and could undermine the country’s democratic progress if left unchecked.
“We urge all Kenyans to maintain peace before, during and after the elections. Let us reject hate speech, violence and any form of political incitement that threatens national unity,” the religious leaders said.
The leaders encouraged politicians to conduct issue-based campaigns and resolve political differences through lawful and peaceful means.
Youth Urged to Reject Political Violence
The dialogue placed particular emphasis on the role of young people during the election period, with speakers urging them not to be drawn into acts of violence or criminal activities for political gain.
The leaders appealed to the youth to channel their energy into education, entrepreneurship and community development instead of allowing themselves to be manipulated by politicians.
“Our youth should focus on education, entrepreneurship and productive activities instead of allowing themselves to be used to cause violence,” the leaders said.
They noted that empowering young people through economic opportunities and civic education would help reduce their vulnerability to political exploitation.
Women Recognised as Peace Ambassadors
The forum also highlighted the critical role women play in promoting peace and social cohesion within communities.
Religious leaders encouraged women to use their influence in families, churches, self-help groups and other community platforms to champion dialogue, tolerance and national unity.
“Women have a critical role in promoting peace and preventing conflicts at the grassroots level. Their voices are key in building a united and peaceful society,” the leaders said.
Call for Responsible Leadership
The stakeholders concluded by calling on both national and county leaders to uphold the principles of good governance, transparency and accountability while ensuring citizens remain actively involved in shaping development priorities.
They said sustained public participation, responsible leadership and peaceful political engagement are essential for strengthening democracy, improving service delivery and fostering inclusive development across the country.
About Author
