Catholic Bishops Urge Youths to Register Ahead of 2027 General Elections in Kenya

“Every young person’s vote is a voice of hope for a more accountable, inclusive, and compassionate Nation. We therefore strongly urge all eligible youth to register. Registering as a voter secures your voice and contribution, enabling Kenya to continue growing in Justice, Peace, and Unity.  This is an important step in the process of setting right and rectifying the various Institutions and organs of Government,” they said.

Members of the KCCB also raised concerns about the manner in which the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act and the Land Amendment Act No. 21 of 2025 were established, saying that the laws were crafted and enacted in a hurry without public participation.

“Kenyans have raised substantial concerns about the Amendments, which were signed into law. We strongly recommend a necessary review lest they be abused to curtail the very freedom they ought to protect. Meaningful public participation would be necessary,” they said.

The Catholic Bishops called upon the Kenyan government to take into consideration the fears of the Kenyan citizens regarding the two laws enacted.

They pointed out the possibility of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act being used “to silence government critics, to abuse the right to privacy, or even to manipulate the electoral process.”

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“We have always called on the public, especially the youth, to use civil language when raising concerns online. Nevertheless, they should not be intimidated from expressing themselves as active citizens interested in their country’s affairs,” the Bishops said.

They warned that laws passed without broad consultation risk eroding public trust in government.

“We recommend that the offending clauses be expunged and that specificity be provided on who the law targets. This would instill in the public an awareness that the law is meant to protect and expand their rights, enhance public order, and not to injure their freedoms,” KCCB members said.

The Bishops further cautioned against aspects of the Religious Organization Bill, emphasizing that while legislation is necessary, government efforts must not be seen as attempts to regulate religion.

Meanwhile, as the country marks the Jubilee Year of Hope, the Bishops reaffirmed their commitment to the well-being of all Kenyans and called upon all the people of God in Kenya, including the leaders and even the youths to to confront national challenges with renewed hope, “fostering a Nation rooted in Justice, Peace, and shared Prosperity.”

“In this spirit, we need to work together to build a Kenya where every voice is heard, every right is protected, and God’s grace flows abundantly for all,” they said.

Sabrine Amboka is a Kenyan journalist with a passion for Catholic church communication. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from St. Paul's University in Kenya.