In a functioning democracy, leaders and citizens share the solemn duty to respect, defend and uphold the Constitution. Kenya is by all standards no different. We are even better off having a robust constitution which observers describe as one of the most progressive in the continent.
However, we are witnessing a deeply worrying trend where politicians make reckless statements, flout the law, and engage in actions that risk pushing our country toward instability. You wonder why they are tempting fate!
These incidents are becoming frequent and worsening by the day ahead of the 2027 elections. Even more troubling, these violations are often met with silence from the very institutions meant to hold power accountable. The NCIC has tried to rein in such but it lacks prosecutorial powers.
The ongoing premature political campaigns taking place under the guise of empowerment forums should worry us two years ahead of the elections, in direct violation of electoral laws. Early campaigns are disruptive. They have are a dangerous distraction to the economy. Yet, all we see is little to no enforcement.
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Equally disturbing are recent attempts by some legislators to suggest amendments to the Constitution for selfish political interests. Some have even alluded to rigging elections. The Constitution is clear on separation of powers between the Executive, Parliament, and Judiciary. Yet we see a dangerous trend of Parliament compromising its independence by aligning closely with the Executive.
There is hope, however. The erosion of constitutional values and principles by leaders has been noticed by the majority. It has led to disillusionment, especially among the youth, a demographic often dismissed but now unmistakably vocal since last year’s Gen Z uprising on June 25.
Their protests are not just reactions to political rhetoric. They are a cry for help from a generation that feels ignored, unemployed, and even undervalued despite Kenya Kwanza’s lofty promises in 2022. The State’s response to youth unemployment has been slow. Even the jobs abroad haven’t materialised well. The Hustler Fund, on the other hand, is yet to prove itself to be a major ‘empowerment’ tool.
There’s concern that redistribution of tax funds without a solid long-term plan looks less like economic justice and more like bribery and buying of loyalty. Just this week, the EACC released a damning graft report which suggests that bribery is still the order of the day in many public institutions.
Young people deserve more than handouts. Yes, they deserve meaningful investment in skills development, job creation, innovation, quality education, and access to quality healthcare. But how will this be possible? The youth must defend our Constitution. It is their only defender. Leaders too must uphold the law. What do we do when they choose to break it? What example does that set for citizens who lack civic knowledge?
This is need for civic education towards the ideals of our Constitution. Through my engagement with young people, I’ve seen firsthand how many don’t understand their rights, the responsibilities of public officials, or how government institutions should work. This is a gap yearning to be filled.
Civic education should not be optional anymore. It should be central to our democracy. It is the only way to protect our constitution and nurture a generation of informed and active citizens who can demand accountability. If the youth don’t take an active role, our democracy will be hijacked by those who twist it to serve their own interests. The very systems meant to protect the citizens will be turned against us with serious consequences.
– Mr Kailemiais a youth leader based in Meru
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By Amos Kailemia