As Kenya moves closer to the 2027 General Election, concerns about election-related violence are beginning to dominate public conversations once again. While campaigns have not officially begun, recent events in different parts of the country are raising difficult questions about whether the country has learned from its past—or whether it risks repeating it.

This week’s Coffee Bar Tuesday at the MuYI Hub brought together young people from Mukuru to discuss the state of Kenya’s electoral environment, with particular focus on the Point Olkalou by-election, the recent violence in Viwandani Ward, and what these events could mean for the country’s democratic future.

When Local Events Become National Warnings

The discussion opened with reflections on the recent politically charged violence witnessed in Viwandani Ward, Mukuru. Participants expressed concern over clashes between rival political supporters that resulted in injuries, destruction of property, and heightened tension within the community.

The subsequent arrest and arraignment of the sitting MCA together with two other individuals demonstrated that election-related violence is no longer a concern for the future—it is already happening in local communities.

For many participants, the events in Viwandani served as a reminder that political competition can quickly escalate into violence when leaders place personal interests above the well-being of the communities they seek to represent.

Looking at the Bigger Picture

The discussion was further informed by reports warning about Kenya’s vulnerability to election-related violence.

Participants referred to recent analyses suggesting that the country faces a significant risk of political violence if current trends continue unchecked. While they acknowledged that predictions are never certain, many agreed that the warning signs are becoming increasingly visible.

Across the country, there have been growing reports of politically sponsored groups disrupting meetings, intimidating opponents, and using violence to influence political narratives.

Participants observed that these incidents resemble patterns witnessed before previous election periods and stressed that they should not be ignored simply because the General Election is still months away.

The conversation concluded that preventing violence requires action long before campaigns officially begin.

The Lessons from Point Olkalou

The Point Olkalou by-election became another key focus of the discussion.

Participants noted that although the election is for a single parliamentary seat, it has attracted national attention because it is widely viewed as a test of Kenya’s electoral institutions ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Many participants felt that the contest had become heavily politicized, with national political interests overshadowing local issues.

There was also concern that reports of violence and intimidation during campaigns undermine public confidence in democratic processes.

The discussion emphasized that every by-election offers an opportunity to strengthen democracy—or weaken it. Participants agreed that how institutions respond during these smaller elections sends an important message about what citizens should expect in 2027.

Rebuilding Trust in the Electoral Process

One issue that united participants was the importance of public confidence in the electoral system.

Many argued that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has an opportunity to rebuild trust by ensuring that the Point Olkalou by-election is conducted in a transparent, peaceful, and credible manner.

Participants observed that public confidence in elections has declined over the years due to recurring disputes, allegations of irregularities, and political interference.

They agreed that a credible by-election would demonstrate the Commission’s commitment to fairness and strengthen confidence ahead of the General Election.

Politics Without Violence

Beyond electoral institutions, participants reflected on the responsibility of political leaders.

There was consensus that politicians should stop mobilizing young people to engage in violence, intimidation, and destruction of property during campaigns.

Instead, campaigns should focus on ideas, leadership, and public service rather than fear and confrontation.

Participants also challenged young people to reject attempts to be used as political weapons, emphasizing that while elections come and go, communities are left to deal with the long-term consequences of violence.

Peace Begins with Communities

The conversation highlighted that preventing election violence is not solely the responsibility of the government or the police.

Communities themselves have a role to play by promoting dialogue, rejecting hate speech, discouraging political bribery, and holding leaders accountable for their actions.

Participants agreed that civic education should be intensified ahead of the 2027 elections so that voters can make informed decisions based on policies and leadership rather than ethnicity, intimidation, or financial inducements.

Looking Ahead

The Coffee Bar concluded with a shared understanding that Kenya still has time to avoid another cycle of election-related violence—but only if action is taken now.

Participants called on political leaders to exercise restraint, security agencies to act impartially, and electoral institutions to uphold their constitutional mandate without fear or favour.

Most importantly, they challenged young people to become ambassadors of peace within their communities by rejecting violence, speaking out against political manipulation, and encouraging issue-based politics.

As the country prepares for another election cycle, the message from Coffee Bar was clear: peaceful elections are not achieved on polling day—they are built through the everyday choices of leaders, institutions, and citizens alike.

Date: Tuesday, 23rd June 2026

The latest edition of Coffee Bar Tuesday, hosted by MuYI HUB, brought together 13 participants, marking an increase in attendance from the previous session. The discussion focused on one of the most pressing local political conversations: the race for the next Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Kwa Reuben Ward.

With more individuals declaring interest in the seat almost every week, participants reflected on the growing list of aspirants and explored what qualities the community should prioritize when choosing its next representative.

A Crowded Race with Many Questions

The discussion began by acknowledging that it is becoming increasingly difficult to establish the exact number of people intending to contest the Kwa Reuben MCA seat. New declarations continue to emerge, creating uncertainty among residents about who is seriously seeking the position.

Participants observed that while many individuals have expressed interest, there is growing concern that some aspirants may not have demonstrated meaningful engagement or service within the community prior to declaring their candidacy. Several participants felt that public office should not merely be viewed as an attractive political opportunity but as a responsibility that requires proven commitment to the people.

Learning from the Current Leadership

The conversation naturally shifted to reflecting on the current leadership of the ward.

Participants expressed disappointment with what they described as unmet expectations from the current MCA. They argued that the perceived shortcomings of the current leadership have contributed to increased interest in the seat, attracting a wide range of aspirants.

One key point of consensus was that being born in Kwa Reuben or having lived in the area for many years should not, on its own, qualify someone for leadership. While local knowledge is important, participants argued that effective leadership requires much more than residency.

The discussion emphasized that understanding community challenges, engaging residents consistently, and advocating effectively for local needs are qualities that matter more than simply having long-standing ties to the area.

What Should the Next MCA Look Like?

Rather than focusing on personalities, much of the discussion centered on identifying the qualities residents would like to see in the next MCA.

Participants agreed that the community needs a leader who:

• Has a demonstrated track record of serving the community.
• Has consistently stood with residents during times of crisis and challenge.
• Is accessible and accountable to the people.
• Can confidently represent Kwa Reuben’s interests in the Nairobi County Assembly.
• Is capable of articulating community concerns effectively during debates and committee sessions.
• Can understand, interpret, and scrutinize county budgets, legislation, and policy proposals.

Although formal education was not viewed as the most important qualification, participants agreed that the ability to read, analyse, and interpret budgets and bills is essential for anyone seeking to represent the ward effectively.

As one participant summarized:

“Whoever we elect becomes an average reflection of our community.”

The statement sparked further discussion about the importance of electing leaders who can inspire confidence both within Kwa Reuben and at the county level.

The Need for a Community Dialogue with All Aspirants

While participants did not settle on a definitive formula for selecting the next MCA, one practical proposal received broad support.

The group agreed that organizing a community forum bringing together all aspiring MCA candidates would provide residents with an opportunity to hear directly from each candidate, compare their ideas, ask questions, and evaluate their leadership qualities before making informed decisions.

Such a platform, participants noted, would strengthen accountability and encourage issue-based politics rather than personality-driven campaigns.

Other Matters Discussed

Global Day to Fight Inequality

The session also received an update on preparations for the upcoming Global Day to Fight Inequality, scheduled for 4th July 2026.

Participants were informed that the Executive Director of Mukuru Youth Initiative (MuYI) has been entrusted with coordinating the Fight Inequality Alliance – Nairobi Chapter and will lead the city’s preparations for the global day of action.

Everyone was invited to participate, with further communication and details to be shared in the coming days.

June 25th Gen Z Commemoration

The meeting also discussed the planned June 25th Gen Z Commemoration.

Participants acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the planned activities and the broader public environment. Rather than taking a collective position, the group respected individual choice, agreeing that every participant should make their own personal decision on whether or not to attend the commemorative activities.

The discussion reaffirmed the importance of respecting diverse views while encouraging peaceful civic participation.

Building a Culture of Civic Dialogue

Coffee Bar Tuesday continues to provide an open and respectful platform where residents can engage in meaningful conversations about governance, leadership, and community development.

As Kwa Reuben prepares for the 2027 General Election, conversations such as these are helping residents move beyond campaign promises and focus on the qualities, values, and competence they expect from those seeking public office.

By encouraging informed dialogue and civic participation, Coffee Bar Tuesday seeks to strengthen community voices and contribute to more accountable local leadership.

Coffee Bar Tuesday is a weekly community dialogue hosted by MuYI HUB, creating a safe space for residents to discuss governance, social issues, community development, and active citizenship over a cup of coffee.