- Disengagement from our civic responsibilities has left us grappling with the consequences, and it is high time we confront this reality head-on.
- It is our responsibility to demand credible leadership while ensuring our actions are constitutional and peaceful. We must safeguard our nation even as we strive for change.
- By engaging in the democratic process through voting, participating in peaceful protests, and holding our leaders accountable, we can create a nation that reflects our values and aspirations.
In 2022, a significant portion of us made the choice to abstain from voting, operating under the belief that our single vote wouldn’t make a tangible difference.
This decision, driven by a sense of futility and disillusionment, was a vote in itself—a vote for inaction, a vote for indifference. Today, as we survey our sociopolitical landscape, it becomes painfully clear that our collective abstention has had profound implications. We find ourselves lamenting the leadership we have, but it is a leadership shaped by our own hands, or more precisely, by our own abstention.
Refusing to vote is not a neutral act; it is a powerful statement of relinquishment. By opting out, we effectively handed over our future to those who did choose to engage.
This disengagement from our civic responsibilities has left us grappling with the consequences, and it is high time we confront this reality head-on.
Learning from Our Mistakes
It’s essential to acknowledge our past mistakes and understand the gravity of our civic duties. The right to vote, the right to protest, and the right to hold our leaders accountable are cornerstones of a functioning democracy.
However, these rights must be exercised with respect for the constitution and the rights of others. Our actions should aim to safeguard, not endanger, the freedoms and properties of our fellow citizens.
Ensuring the legitimacy of our accountability measures means weeding out hooliganism and chaos.
Kenya, a nation we wish to see governed with integrity and transparency, cannot afford to be engulfed in disorder. It is our duty to protect the businesses of our parents, aunts, uncles, siblings, and friends.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya employ over 60% of the youth. Destroying these businesses during protests or through neglect does not open up new opportunities; it only amplifies the miseries of unemployment and economic instability.
A Call to Action: Rise Above and Reclaim Our Future
As Generation Z and Millennials, we stand at a critical juncture. It is our responsibility to demand credible leadership while ensuring our actions are constitutional and peaceful. We must safeguard our nation even as we strive for change.
The book of Proverbs warns against a little sleep and a little slumber, and we must heed this wisdom. In 2022, we slept on our civic duty, and we cannot afford to repeat this mistake in 2027. Now is the time to act.
- Exercising Our Constitutional Rights
We can start by leveraging our constitutional rights to hold our leaders accountable. If your Member of Parliament is not working for you, gather signatures to recall them.
This is a powerful tool we can use to ensure that our representatives truly represent our interests. We must engage in the democratic process not only by voting but by staying vigilant and proactive throughout the election cycles.
- Protecting Our Nation and Future
Let us rise above complacency and take our nation forward. As youth, we hold the power to shape the future of Kenya.
By engaging in the democratic process, voting, participating in peaceful protests, and holding our leaders accountable, we can create a nation that reflects our values and aspirations.
Our engagement must be strategic and informed, ensuring that our voices are not only heard but also lead to meaningful change not what we have seen in the recent weeks of hooliganism.
- Building a Culture of Civic Engagement
A robust democracy thrives on the active participation of its citizens. This participation must go beyond election days and extend into everyday civic engagement.
We need to foster a culture where questioning our leaders and demanding transparency becomes the norm. Civic education should be a priority, ensuring that every Kenyan understands their rights and responsibilities.
- Youth Empowerment and Leadership
Empowering the youth is crucial. We must invest in education and leadership development programs that equip young Kenyans with the skills and knowledge necessary to take on leadership roles.
Mentorship programs, internships, and civic education initiatives can play a significant role in preparing the next generation of leaders. By doing so, we ensure that our future leaders are not only capable but also deeply connected to the values and aspirations of their constituents.
- Economic Participation and Innovation
Economic stability is a cornerstone of a thriving democracy. As the youth, we must also focus on economic participation and innovation.
By supporting local businesses, promoting entrepreneurship, and advocating for policies that create job opportunities, we can contribute to a robust economy that supports democratic stability.
Innovation hubs, technology incubators, and vocational training programs are essential in equipping the youth with the skills needed for the future job market. Let us not purport to use our democratic rights to abuse and destroy these channels.
- Environmental Stewardship
Another critical area of focus should be environmental stewardship. Climate change and environmental degradation are pressing issues that require immediate attention.
As future leaders, we must advocate for sustainable practices and policies that protect our natural resources. By promoting green initiatives and participating in environmental conservation efforts, we can ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
How can we engage better in this moving forward for the sake of our country’s prosperity?
- Reclaiming Our Political Power
The political power of the youth is immense. With over 75% of Kenya’s population under the age of 35, we are not just the future; we are the present.
Our collective voice can shape policies, influence elections, and drive national discourse. We must recognise this power and use it wisely. Political apathy has no place in our generation. We must be informed, engaged, and ready to take on the mantle of leadership.
- Building Alliances and Networks
Building alliances and networks is crucial for amplifying our impact. By collaborating with like-minded individuals, organizations, and movements, we can create a united front for change.
These networks can provide support, resources, and a platform for collective action. Together, we can tackle issues more effectively and drive significant societal changes.
- Engaging in Policy Advocacy
Policy advocacy is another vital area where we can make a difference. By understanding the policy-making process and actively engaging in it, we can influence decisions that affect our lives.
This involves not only advocating for new policies but also ensuring the implementation and accountability of existing ones.
Participating in public consultations, writing policy briefs, and engaging with policymakers are some ways we can get involved.
A Call to Wake Up and Stand Up
We cannot sit back and watch as our country is torn apart by apathy and inaction.
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We must be the generation that protects and builds. Let us wake up, stand up, and take action. Our future depends on it. But we must do so with decorum, within the constitutional boundaries, and ensure the protection of our other citizens’ properties and rights.
In 2027, let us ensure that we do not repeat the mistakes of 2022. The time for change is now, and it starts with us. Let us reclaim our political power, engage in civic duties, and build a Kenya that we can all be proud of.
Dr. Gilbert A. Ang’ana, PhD is a Leadership, Governance, and Policy Consultant and Advisor and CEO at Accent Leadership Group.
