Coast Civil Society Network for Human Rights chair
Zedekiah Adika in Mombasa on Thursday / BRIAN OTIENO
Disruption, destruction and injuries reported during Thursday’s by-elections have raised concern among civil society groups in Mombasa, who say the incidents offer a worrying preview of what could unfold in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a stakeholder meeting on election preparedness, Mombasa-based Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) called for lessons to be drawn from the 24 parliamentary and local by-elections held.
“We have seen aspects of violence in various parts of the country in the run-up to the mini-polls, even in areas without by-elections, including Mombasa,” Coast Civil Society Network for Human Rights chairperson Zedekiah Adika said.
Adika urged stakeholders to prepare adequately ahead of 2027, noting that political tensions and acts meant to intimidate or distract the public should not overshadow key issues.
The network is implementing the Agenda Yetu programme, supported by the Uraia Trust, to enhance preparedness for the 2027 polls.
Kwacha Africa’s Johnston Kalama said the programme focuses on civic education and strengthening understanding of electoral processes.
“This involves ensuring the peace, transparency and quality expected in the electoral process,” Kalama said. He added that evaluating candidates’ manifestos and commitments remains essential.
Adika said Kenyans should approach the 2027 polls based on issues that have persisted since 2022. He noted that some concerns raised after the last general election remain unresolved and called for greater transparency in the electoral process.
The CSOs also raised questions about past instances in which individuals with integrity concerns were cleared to vie, urging the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to strictly adhere to the law when verifying documents and qualifications.
IEBC’s Masha Sudi said the commission is strengthening partnerships with various stakeholders to deliver a peaceful and transparent election in 2027. He said the commission remains committed to credible electoral processes.
“We want to reach a point where people will not feel the need to leave their homes because an election is about to be conducted,” Sudi said.
Mombasa deputy county commissioner Kalume Kashulu stressed the importance of civic education, noting that some voters often lack adequate information about the candidates they support.
Kashulu said the government prioritises security before, during and after elections. He urged voters to make informed choices during elections.
“The voter is the most important person because they decide who leads the country,” he said. “Elections should not be reduced to accepting small handouts. Be conscious and vote consciously.”
He added that the country has many capable leaders who can offer quality service if elected.
