Former MCA Sara Abdi Urges Women to Seek Elective Seats, Warns Against Political Violence Ahead of 2027 Polls
Former Kapsawos Ward nominated MCA Sara Abdi addresses journalists during the launch of the Kapsaos Football Youth Tournament, where she urged women to pursue elective leadership positions and called for peaceful political participation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
By James Gitaka
Former Kapsaos Ward nominated MCA Sara Abdi has challenged women to actively pursue elective political positions, saying they should not rely solely on nominations to secure leadership opportunities.
Speaking during the launch of the Kapsaos Football Youth Tournament, Abdi urged women to contest for political seats at all levels, including Members of County Assembly (MCAs), Members of Parliament, senators and governors.
Abdi, who previously served as a nominated MCA before losing the position, said her experience had reinforced the importance of seeking direct electoral mandates, which she described as more secure than appointments.
“I was nominated, but I was removed. If I had been elected, no one would have removed me,” she said.
She encouraged women to overcome fear, believe in their leadership abilities and actively participate in competitive politics, urging them to put God first as they pursue their political ambitions.
Abdi also called on political leaders across the political divide to exercise restraint and prioritise national stability as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election.
She cautioned against political intolerance, violence and confrontations, saying disagreements over political positions should not undermine the country’s peace and unity.
“Kenya is ours, and we will not get another Kenya. We welcome refugees, but nobody will welcome us if we become refugees ourselves,” Abdi said.
She urged politicians to learn from neighbouring countries that have experienced instability, displacement and humanitarian crises, warning that Kenyans should not take the country’s relative peace for granted.
The former MCA further appealed to young people to remain united and resist being drawn into political confrontations for the benefit of individual politicians.
Women urged to take up leadership positions
Sheikh Abubakr Bini who graced the event called for the full implementation of the constitutional two-thirds gender principle, urging women to take advantage of existing legal provisions to increase their representation in elective and appointive leadership.
Bini challenged women to overcome political intimidation and actively participate in decision-making processes, noting that their involvement was essential in advancing gender representation.
The address also condemned violence at political gatherings, citing recent confrontations involving political leaders, including Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and called for tolerance among political competitors.
The speaker warned that political disagreements should never result in physical assaults, injuries or loss of lives, urging leaders to promote peaceful engagement even when they hold opposing political positions.
Youth cautioned against political exploitation
Meanwhile, Richard Kipkogei, who introduced himself as a captain, challenged young people to reject attempts by politicians to use them as instruments of political confrontation.
Kipkogei criticised what he described as the exploitation of young people by politicians who allegedly mobilise them for activities that expose them to danger while the leaders themselves remain protected.
He urged the youth to exercise independent judgment, safeguard their future and avoid participating in political violence.
The speakers also acknowledged government-supported initiatives aimed at empowering communities, calling for sustained efforts to expand opportunities for women and young people.
Their remarks at the Kapsaos Football Youth Tournament launch placed emphasis on women’s political representation, peaceful political competition, youth empowerment and the responsibility of political leaders to safeguard national cohesion ahead of the 2027 General Election.
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