Constitutional lawyer Prof PLO Lumumba has emphasised the pivotal role of young Kenyans in preserving the country’s democratic institutions.
Speaking on Citizen TV on Wednesday night, Lumumba called on youth to remain actively engaged in elections, arguing that their participation is central to maintaining the credibility of the ballot.
He observed that there is a growing public perception that elections may be rigged, a view he warned could erode confidence in democratic processes if left unchecked.
“Democracy is protected by the vigilance of the population,” Lumumba said, urging young voters to turn out in large numbers and reinforce the integrity of the electoral system.
Lumumba pointed to the 2024 general elections as evidence of youth influence, noting that young Kenyans demonstrated a willingness to prioritize national interests over tribal affiliations.
He urged continued civic engagement, highlighting that the political choices of young people have long-term implications for Kenya’s governance and stability.
According to Lumumba, encouraging youth to think beyond narrow ethnic or regional considerations is crucial for Kenya’s future.
He described himself as “guardedly optimistic” that broad-based political awareness among young citizens could help the country address systemic challenges and safeguard democratic values.
The lawyer’s remarks come amid ongoing debates over electoral reforms and public trust in institutions such as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
Lumumba also stressed that the message sent by youth in 2024—favoring a forward-looking, issue-based approach—must be reinforced in upcoming electoral cycles.
He urged political leaders and civic educators to continuously engage with young voters, ensuring that they understand the impact of their vote on national development and cohesion.
By framing youth involvement as a safeguard against potential manipulation, Lumumba highlighted the broader responsibility of citizens to protect democratic norms.