The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has launched a three-day electoral sensitization forum in Kisumu County, aimed at promoting peaceful and accountable participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking to the press on Tuesday, LSK project lead Sarah Agong said the forum, sponsored by the Canadian High Commission, seeks to ensure that Kenyans, particularly Kisumu residents, engage in non-violent electoral processes.
“The main aim of the project is to safeguard and ensure a peaceful electoral process, particularly in Kisumu, given that past elections were marred by violence,” Agong said. She added that the pilot forum in Kisumu will serve as a benchmark for similar initiatives across the country. “This project comes at the right time, just days after the by-elections that witnessed election-related tensions,” she noted.
Agong emphasized the importance of collaboration between community leaders and advocates to foster a culture of peaceful elections.
“We are creating community-based champions who share a common mindset to ensure peaceful elections,” she said.
Dorcas Oluoch, chair of LSK Kisumu Chapter, highlighted the role of advocates in legal reforms and election monitoring.
“We are ready to create election law awareness and act on issues raised during this forum. Some of us will serve as election observers, while others will monitor and flag concerns to ensure the 2027 elections are free, fair, and transparent,” she said.
Grace Otieno, chair of LSK West Kenya Region, stressed the need for early preparation.
“You cannot prepare for an election without a sensitization forum. We also plan to engage the IEBC, police, and other stakeholders to ensure credible elections in 2027,” she said.
Easter Achieng Okech, Executive Director,Kenya Female Advisory Organization (KEFEADO) encouraged voter participation, particularly among the youth.
“We aim to demystify the narrative that this area is prone to election violence. Voting is a right, and voter apathy is not the solution,” she said.
The forum comes amid growing concerns over election-related tensions in Kenya and underscores LSK’s commitment to promoting national unity and peaceful democratic processes.
