Kapsabet:The Nandi Maendeleo Ya Wake Organization (MYWO) leaders are urging politicians to conduct peaceful campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Election, emphasizing the need to keep children away from political violence.
According to Kenya News Agency, the women convened in Kapsabet town to address pressing development issues within the county and expressed concern over young people being entangled in political confrontations. They stressed that these confrontations often result from small monetary incentives, ultimately leading to adverse consequences.
Sarah Kosgei, the Nandi County Chairperson of MYWO, highlighted the importance of peaceful political campaigns, urging candidates to respect their opponents and allow voters to make informed decisions without intimidation. She emphasized the detrimental impact of election-related violence on friendships and communities, stating that such chaos only results in injuries and wounds without any benefits.
Kosgei called on candidates for various positions, from local to national levels, to respect their rivals and encourage their supporters to attend political gatherings peacefully. She also urged women and youth to maintain composure during the election period, warning against the destructive potential of political differences.
The women leaders also demanded greater acceptance for female candidates, acknowledging the challenges women face, including insults and personal attacks, which detract from meaningful political discourse. Kosgei argued that women should be evaluated based on their leadership skills and policies rather than their gender, advocating for equal opportunities in political leadership.
Sally Chepkoech, a MYWO representative from Chesumei Sub-County, challenged politicians to engage young people constructively, suggesting that political support should lead to improved livelihoods rather than temporary handouts that might endanger them. She recommended that politicians engage with young voters by discussing policies and offering sustainable support.
The women emphasized the temporary nature of elections compared to the lasting impact of political violence on relationships, families, and communities. They also highlighted the need for politicians to respect religious and family gatherings, keeping political confrontations away from such events.
In addition to political concerns, the women called for community action against alcohol and drug abuse, warning of the long-term effects on young people’s futures. Chepkoech urged mothers to collaborate at the village level to safeguard children from substance abuse and related social issues.
The MYWO leaders reiterated that peaceful elections should be a collective effort, with politicians presenting their policies, voters considering competing ideas, and young people rejecting participation in violence. They committed to continuing their advocacy for peace and encouraging women’s participation in leadership roles.
The overarching message from the women of Nandi was clear: political competition should not cost families their children, communities their peace, or women their dignity for aspiring to leadership positions.
