In a spirited address that blended urgency with optimism, newly appointed Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has called on Kenya’s youth, influencers, bloggers, and civil society groups to play a decisive role in shaping the country’s democratic future.
Speaking in Mombasa County on Wednesday during a high-level outreach meeting with fellow commissioners, Ethekon placed the spotlight firmly on Gen Z, whose rising political consciousness and vocal activism have redefined Kenya’s public discourse in recent years. The gathering brought together media personalities, grassroots leaders, and digital influencers to discuss strategies for driving voter engagement ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Ethekon challenged digital content creators to harness their platforms for national good, urging them to move beyond sensationalism.
“Let’s shift from clickbait to truth-bait,” he told the audience, emphasizing the transformative power of accurate information in shaping public opinion. He reminded young people that their leadership role is not confined to the future. “You’re not just the future, you’re the focus. Your presence today shows you care, not just about the next election, but about the future of our country. Your voice matters now more than ever,” he said.
The chairperson also underscored the importance of civil society and the media as watchdogs, encouraging constructive, purpose-driven dialogue. He noted that such conversations are critical in fostering transparency, accountability, and public trust in the electoral process.
The Mombasa outreach forms part of the IEBC’s broader strategy to strengthen grassroots connections, instill civic pride, and promote active citizenship. By engaging digital communities alongside traditional stakeholders, the Commission aims to make voter participation a shared national mission.
