By Faith Anene, Kiambu
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has challenged young people to take an active role in shaping the country’s leadership by electing leaders with proven track records in the 2027 General Election.
Barasa said the youth, who form a significant part of the country’s population, have a critical role to play in determining Kenya’s political and economic future.
Speaking as the chief guest during the 12th graduation ceremony at Tricent College in Kiambu County, the governor urged the graduates to use their influence to elect leaders capable of transforming the country.
“I want you to take the national elections coming in 2027 very seriously because you are the change agents. Make sure that when you are electing leaders, you choose leaders who have a track record and understand what leadership entails,” he said.
He challenged the graduates to take advantage of their numbers and influence to give the country visionary leadership.
“You, as young people, have that magic bullet of making sure that you give this country leadership that is going to transform the nation,” Barasa said.
The governor also called on political leaders across the political divide to tone down their rhetoric and embrace tolerance as the country prepares for the next General Election.
He expressed concern over growing political hostility, urging leaders to promote peaceful coexistence rather than engage in exchanges that could deepen divisions.
“Let us tone down the political rhetoric. People have started insulting each other everywhere. This is the time when we, as Kenyans, must live together as brothers and sisters,” he said.
Barasa reminded politicians and Kenyans that elections are temporary events, while the country’s unity and social fabric must endure beyond the electoral contest.
“Elections will come and go, but let us always preach peace because the 2027 elections will end, but we will remain brothers and sisters,” he said.
He called for political tolerance among leaders across the board, saying the country must safeguard peace and national cohesion ahead of the polls.
The governor also encouraged the graduates to represent the institution and the country well as they venture into the job market, both locally and internationally.
Earlier, Tricent College Administrator Margaret Wanjiku Kang’ethe urged the graduates to combine professional knowledge and skills with compassion, integrity and commitment to serving humanity.
She reminded them that success in the healthcare sector goes beyond academic qualifications, noting that professionals must demonstrate dedication and concern for the people they serve.
Deputy Director Stella Mutua challenged the graduates to uphold ethical standards and treat patients with dignity as they begin their careers.
“Healthcare is more than a profession. It is a calling to serve, uphold integrity, treat every patient with dignity and continue learning to meet the changing needs of the healthcare sector,” she said.
