Representatives of civil society organisations address the media in Lukenya, Athi River, on March 18, 2026, after a joint meeting calling for urgent reforms to address economic hardship and protect democratic space ahead of the 2027 elections.
By Peace Muthoka
Athi River, March 18 — Civil society groups have warned that Kenya is facing a deepening crisis marked by economic hardship and a steady erosion of democratic space, calling for urgent reforms ahead of the 2027 elections.
The groups, drawn from across civil society, faith institutions, labour unions, youth movements, and governance bodies, met in Lukenya, Athi River, where they issued a joint statement reflecting growing concern over the state of the nation.
They said the phrase “Maisha ni mbaya” now captures the daily reality for millions of Kenyans struggling with the high cost of living, limited opportunities, and an uncertain future.
According to the coalition, Kenya stands at a critical moment. While democratic structures remain in place, they warned that their integrity is being undermined by political interference, weakening oversight, and declining public trust.
They described the June 2024 Gen Z protests as a turning point, saying they represented a clear public verdict on unmet expectations and broken promises.
The protests, they noted, exposed a widening disconnect between citizens and leaders, a gap they said cannot be addressed through isolated demonstrations but requires sustained and organised democratic renewal.
The groups also raised concern over what they termed a shrinking civic space, pointing to increased cases of abductions, illegal deportations, surveillance, and intimidation.
They warned that both activists and ordinary citizens are increasingly at risk, while digital misinformation, including AI-generated content, is further distorting public debate.
They insisted that civic space is a fundamental right and called for an immediate end to actions that restrict freedom of expression, assembly, and public participation.
On governance, the coalition warned of growing threats to democracy, including the concentration of power and interference in independent institutions.
They criticised Parliament for failing to fully assert its independence and raised concern over legislation passed without meaningful public participation.
They urged lawmakers to reclaim their constitutional role by strengthening oversight and ensuring accountability in the use of public funds.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, the groups described the upcoming vote as a key opportunity to reset the country’s trajectory.
They called for reforms to improve electoral integrity, regulate campaign financing, and restore confidence in institutions tasked with managing elections.
They also urged young people to register as voters, stressing that their participation will be crucial in shaping the country’s future.
Economic challenges featured prominently in their statement, with the coalition criticising what it described as misplaced national priorities.
They pointed to underfunded health and education systems, overcrowded classrooms, struggling hospitals, and rising youth unemployment as signs of a system under strain.
They added that recent flood-related deaths have exposed serious gaps in disaster preparedness.
The groups warned that failure to act risks leaving behind a generation of young people facing deepening frustration and limited prospects.
They called for increased investment in human development and greater inclusion of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in governance and decision-making.
In a direct appeal to national leadership, the coalition urged the Presidency to uphold the dignity and integrity of public office, emphasising that leadership must prioritise service to the people.
They also called on security agencies to respect constitutional rights, end unlawful actions against citizens, and focus on protecting freedoms rather than suppressing them.
The organisations pledged to continue advocating for reforms and invited Kenyans to join efforts to defend democracy and improve livelihoods.
They said the issues facing the country are interconnected and require urgent, collective action to address.
