TISA Forum in Eldoret Focuses on 2027 Election Fears and Call for Peaceful Youth Participation
Speakers challenged young people to move beyond online activism and social media commentary into concrete, organized civic action.
Youth leaders, civil society representatives, and community stakeholders attend the TISA Accountability Forum in Eldoret, where they discussed peaceful participation, accountability, and the importance of safeguarding democracy ahead of Kenya's 2027 General Election. Photo: Hubz Media.
Yvone Jeptarus
The political mood ahead of the 2027 General Election took centre stage at the TISA accountability forum held on Monday at the Eldoret Grand Empire Hotel, where speakers raised concerns over potential election-related unrest and urged young people to champion peaceful change.
The meeting, convened by The Institute for Social Accountability (TISA) as part of its ongoing civic education and governance engagement across the country, brought together youth leaders, community representatives, and civil society actors to reflect on accountability, citizen participation, and the electoral road ahead.
While the forum was initially organized to discuss governance and accountability, discussions quickly shifted to the 2027 polls, with participants warning that unresolved historical grievances and rising political tensions could lead to a repeat of past election violence if not addressed early.
Several speakers expressed fears that the country could slide into confrontations similar to those witnessed in previous election cycles, calling on communities in Uasin Gishu and beyond to reject violence as a means of political expression.
A key focus of the dialogue was the role of Generation Z in shaping Kenya’s future. Speakers challenged young people to move beyond online activism and social media commentary into concrete, organized civic action.
They noted that while Gen Z has become increasingly vocal on issues of governance, corruption and economic opportunity, real change would require sustained community organizing, voter education and participation in decision-making processes at the local and national level.
Sonia Amia, who was representing TISA at the forum, issued a strong caution to youth against being drawn into political violence or being used to cause chaos during the electioneering period.
“As you fight, remember you will go and none will miss you rather than your kids, so be keen in the upcoming elections in 2027. No replacement for a mother or a father,” she said.
Amia reminded attendees that the heaviest burden of political conflict is borne by families left behind, urging young people to protect their lives and futures while demanding accountability through lawful means.
Participants also emphasized the need for independent decision-making at the ballot. Voters were encouraged to resist coercion and instructions from political figures, elders or peers on who to support, and to make personal, informed choices based on leadership qualities and development agendas.
Despite broad optimism about Gen Z as a transformative force, some speakers warned that the sacrifices made by young people in the push for reforms could carry long-term personal and social costs if not guided by strategy and dialogue.
Organizers said the Eldoret forum is part of TISA’s broader nationwide program aimed at strengthening civic awareness and promoting peaceful, issue-based participation ahead of the 2027 elections.
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