Machakos Aspirants Equipped Ahead of 2027 Elections
With the 2027 General Elections approaching, 31 participants, mainly aspiring leaders from Machakos County, including four persons with disabilities (PWDs), have been equipped with knowledge on political party and electoral processes to support informed and meaningful participation in Kenya’s democracy.
The engagement was organised by the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), in collaboration with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP).
Hope Nadwa of ORPP Lower Eastern took participants through political party membership and registration, nomination procedures, party constitutions, codes of conduct, Internal Dispute Resolution Mechanisms (IDRM) and political party funding. She emphasized the importance of understanding party rules and nomination procedures early.
“Do not wait until nomination day to understand your party rules. Know the constitution, nomination rules and procedures early so that you can participate effectively.” Hope Nadwa, ORPP Lower Eastern
Alice Kimani, IEBC Returning Officer for Machakos County, guided participants on electoral timelines, accessibility, campaign conduct, ballot secrecy and the role of polling agents. She emphasized the importance of having informed and responsible polling agents throughout the electoral process.
“Polling agents have an important role in safeguarding the interests of candidates at the polling station. They must understand their responsibilities, remain present and active throughout the process and comply with the electoral code of conduct.” — Alice Kimani, IEBC Returning Officer, Machakos County
The interactive session gave participants an opportunity to ask questions, share experiences and engage directly with the institutions responsible for regulating political parties and administering elections.
For wananchi, an informed choice begins long before the ballot is cast. Understanding how political parties nominate candidates, knowing the rules that govern elections and holding leaders to account are all part of protecting the power of your vote. The 2027 election is not only about choosing leaders; it is about exercising your constitutional right to participate, question, decide and shape the future of the country.
An informed citizen is an empowered voter.
