Maendeleo ya Wanawake Organisation (MYWO) has issued a strong call for political tolerance and responsibility as the country inches closer to the 2027 general elections.

 Speaking during the organization’s national executive retreat held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, MYWO Chairperson Reyhab Mwikali warned against the rising political rhetoric and urged leaders to exercise restraint, focus on national unity, and prioritize youth empowerment.

“We are calling for political hygiene. Let leaders avoid inciting the youth or using them as tools for political gain,” Mwikali said in her keynote address. “The youth deserve to be equipped with skills, opportunities, and platforms—not chaos.”

The women’s group, which has played a critical role in community mobilization and advocacy for women’s rights since its formation in 1952, said it is increasingly concerned about the early onset of political bickering and tribal rhetoric ahead of the 2027 election cycle.

Mwikali emphasized that the political class must demonstrate maturity and lead by example to foster peace and economic progress.

“Kenya needs healing, not more divisions. We urge all political leaders, regardless of their affiliations, to focus on what matters rebuilding the economy, empowering young people, and ensuring that every Kenyan has a fair chance,” she said.

Rising concerns over youth exploitation

Mwikali condemned the trend of politicians using unemployed and vulnerable youth for political mobilization, often without offering any long-term support or development. She said that with the country facing high youth unemployment and economic strain, efforts must shift from rhetoric to real empowerment.

“Our young people are not just voters; they are the engine of our economy. We must stop using them for rallies and protests and start giving them tools, capital, and training,” Mwikali said.

She urged the government and private sector to invest in sustainable youth initiatives, including entrepreneurship programs, vocational training, and access to funding for startups. She also called for deliberate inclusion of youth voices in policy formulation at both county and national levels.

Calm ahead of 2027

With the next general election still over two years away, Maendeleo ya Wanawake appealed to politicians to focus on delivering their current mandates instead of launching premature campaigns.

“This is not the time for bickering and early campaigns,” Mwikali said. “Kenyans are tired. Let’s give people service, not slogans.”

She warned that early political tensions risk destabilizing communities and diverting attention from urgent national issues such as inflation, healthcare, and education. The organization called for a clear national framework that guides political conduct and civic education to foster tolerance, especially among the youth.

As one of Kenya’s most established women-led organizations, MYWO has long been involved in peacebuilding, civic education, and social development. Mwikali reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to promoting peace, equity, and inclusive development ahead of the next polls.

“We will not sit back and watch our youth and our country torn apart by reckless politics. As women, mothers, and leaders, we will speak out, and we will act,” she said.

MYWO pledged to continue engaging grassroots networks to sensitize communities on political tolerance and to push for policy reforms that benefit the youth and women.

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