CSOs Call for Respect for Presidency, Democratic Accountability at Lukenya Retreat

Civil society organisations (CSOs), youth and women’s movements, and labour unions have issued a strong call for renewed democratic accountability, respect for institutions, and citizen-led reform during an Inter-Sectorial Leadership Retreat held at Lukenya Gateaway.

The retreat, convened under the theme “From Protest to Organization: Resourcing Courageous Citizenship and Democratic Renewal,” brought together key stakeholders committed to strengthening Kenya’s democracy and safeguarding civic space.

Speaking during a press briefing, Sheila Massinde of Transparency International Kenya emphasised the need to uphold the dignity of the presidency as a unifying national institution.

“The office of the presidency is a symbol of national unity that belongs to all Kenyans as enshrined in Article 131 of the Constitution. The continued conduct that degrades this office is appalling,” she said.

Massinde underscored that leadership is a public trust, citing Article 73 of the Constitution, which demands that state authority be exercised in a manner that brings honour to the nation and dignity to public office.

“We demand that the President and all political leaders exercise language, conduct, and leadership worthy of the offices they hold. The presidency is not a personal platform; it is a constitutional trust,” she added.

The coalition further called for adherence to Chapter Six of the Constitution on leadership and integrity, noting that it is not symbolic but a guiding framework for ethical governance.

Parliament, Executive Under Scrutiny

The stakeholders urged Parliament to assert its independence as provided under Article 94, warning against undue influence from the executive or political parties.

“We demand that Parliament rejects legislation passed without genuine public participation, enacts campaign finance reforms before 2027, and exercises its oversight role with courage by holding the executive accountable for public resources,” the statement read.

They also challenged the executive to prioritise public welfare, cautioning against expanding State House expenditure while essential services such as healthcare and education remain underfunded.

“The nation’s resources must be directed towards health, education, and youth opportunities. The State House budget cannot grow as hospitals collapse and classrooms overflow,” the coalition stated.

Security Agencies Warned Against Rights Violations

The statement also raised alarm over alleged abductions, unlawful deportations, surveillance, and intimidation of citizens and civic leaders.

“The Constitution does not grant security agencies the power to silence citizens. It commands them to protect rights and freedoms,” the groups said, demanding an immediate end to rights violations and interference in places of worship.

They reminded security agencies that their mandate is to safeguard constitutional freedoms, not suppress them.

Judiciary, Electoral Bodies Urged to Uphold Integrity

Reading part of the collective statement, Valentin Mueni of Haki Jamii called on the judiciary to remain firmly independent and proactive in defending constitutional rights.

“We urge the judiciary to act swiftly on violations of civic freedoms and ensure that impunity does not take root. Rights such as health, education, and youth participation must be fully realised,” she said.

The coalition also turned its focus to electoral preparedness ahead of the 2027 General Election, urging the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and other electoral bodies to rebuild public trust.

“Electoral integrity begins now not during nominations. Strengthen voter registration, enforce campaign finance rules, and resist political pressure that could compromise the will of the people,” the statement emphasised.

Call to Citizens, Especially Youth

The leaders made a direct appeal to Kenyans, particularly young people, to actively participate in shaping the country’s democratic future.

“The power to change this country lies with you. Get your identification documents, register to vote, and hold leaders accountable,” they urged.

They also warned against the growing threat of disinformation, including AI-generated content designed to mislead and divide citizens.

“Reject disinformation. Your voice, your vote, and your vigilance are the foundation of our democracy,” the statement noted.

A Collective Commitment

In conclusion, the coalition stressed that Kenya’s democratic future is not guaranteed and requires deliberate, collective action.

“We, as intersectoral civil society leaders, commit ourselves to advancing democratic renewal and courageous citizenship. We invite all Kenyans to join us in this journey,” the statement read.

The declaration was endorsed by more than 20 organisations participating in the retreat.