Peace stakeholders in Mombasa have called on Kenyans to embrace unity, inclusion and responsible citizenship as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during the commemoration of the International Day of Peace, the stakeholders urged political leaders to avoid hate speech and divisive politics, while calling on young people to reject violence and the misuse of social media.

Mombasa Sub-County Peace Committee member Hamisa Zaja called on politicians to campaign peacefully and stop using divisive rhetoric to turn Kenyans against each other.

“Politicians, please stop dividing us and spreading hate among us. We don’t want violence. Come and convince us in peace and not cause chaos,” Zaja said.

She warned that political violence affects everyone, regardless of political affiliation, urging Kenyans to remain united even when they disagree.

“We can agree to disagree but remain Kenyans. Elections come and go. We need a peaceful country,” she said, calling on Kenyans to become ambassadors of peace.

Zaja also urged young people not to allow themselves to be used to perpetrate political violence, noting that citizens are the ones who ultimately bear the consequences when the country descends into chaos.

Her sentiments were echoed by Mombasa OCPD Nicholas Chalulot, who urged residents to safeguard peace and use social media responsibly.

“Let us all be ambassadors of peace. Mombasa is a tourist city; let’s protect our tourists because they bring income to us and to our youth,” Chalulot said.

He cautioned young people against being recruited as political goons as the country approaches the election period.

“To the youth, stop being used. Don’t be goons. We are heading to a very critical time of election,” he said, urging young people to use social media positively and avoid spreading hate.

Meanwhile, Search for Common Ground Programs Officer Wahida Mohamed stressed the importance of inclusion in peacebuilding, saying peace must be enjoyed by everyone regardless of their background or status.

“As we commemorate this day, inclusion is key in ensuring peace for everyone, including persons with disabilities, women and children,” Mohamed said.

She emphasized that peace should not only be discussed at the national or political level but should be reflected in people’s everyday lives.

“Everywhere — in social media, in our homes, maskanis — peace should be part of our daily lives,” she said.

The stakeholders emphasized that maintaining peace is a collective responsibility requiring the participation of political leaders, security agencies, communities, young people, women, persons with disabilities and other groups.

Mombasa Peace Stakeholders Call for Unity, Inclusion Ahead of Elections

urged Kenyans to embrace dialogue, respect differing opinions and promote peaceful coexistence both offline and online as the country moves towards the 2027 General Election.

The International Day of Peace, observed annually on September 21, provides an opportunity to promote peace, non-violence, inclusion and peaceful coexistence.