A message sent in 2011 by the late Emurua Dikirr MP, Johana Ngeno, to the youth of the Kipsigis community has resurfaced just days after he perished in a helicopter crash in Mosop, Nandi County, along with five others.
The timely message comes as Kenya prepares for the 2027 elections, highlighting the importance of youth engagement in leadership.
In his note, Ngeno addressed the emerging generation as “the next stock from which our future MPs, county representatives, and other positions of leadership will be picked.”
He urged the youth to approach the electoral process with seriousness and integrity, emphasizing that democratic participation requires both responsibility and discernment.
“Exercise the electoral process with decorum and dignity it deserves,” he wrote, underlining the critical role young voters play in shaping the future of the South Rift region.
The late legislator also advised against choosing leaders based on party loyalty or ethnic affiliation. Instead, he encouraged thorough vetting of candidates to ensure that the interests of the electorate were placed above personal or political allegiances.
“Vet your electees thoroughly and don’t base your elections on allegiance to certain political inclinations nor party affiliations but put the interest of your electorates first,” Ngeno urged.
For first-time aspirants, Ngeno framed leadership as a responsibility that must be earned through competence and credibility.
“Leadership is about convincing the electorate that you have what it takes to be worth their votes,” he stated, highlighting the need for preparedness, integrity, and vision in public service.
Ngeno, remembered for his grassroots approach and close connection with the community, was widely respected for championing development and ethical leadership.
His message now resonates more than ever, serving as a call to action for the youth of the Kipsigis nation to actively participate in politics with integrity and vision.