Members of the Kileleshwa Ward Neighbourhood Association (KIWANA) have summoned politicians seeking to represent them in the Nairobi County Assembly.
In a letter dated April 2, the association, which consists of residents from the neighbourhood, announced that the screening session is aimed at allowing the aspirants to introduce themselves to the voters.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, one of the organisers of the event confirmed that the interviews will take place on Saturday, April 9, 2022 at Kileleshwa Covenant Community Church.
She further noted that they made arrangements to hold the forum after residents requested for an opportunity to know the aspirants better, with some having already confirmed their attendance.
"The reason why it is happening is because it was a request by the residents. They would love to meet the people they would be voting for.
"Many of the aspirants are coming. As at now, I have almost six confirmations. Deciding to vie is someone's decision but voting is something personal and people will choose those they want to vote for. That is why they want to meet them. If someone does not come, it means they are not ready to sell (their manifestos)," she stated.
The residents also issued a list of requirements to the aspirants who are expected to present their updated curriculum vitae (CVs) clearly outlining their academic qualifications.
The session will also seek to vet the politician's integrity as well as their ability to fight corruption if elected.
"The introduction will be in the form of a brief overview of your CV which should include your academic qualifications. We would be grateful if you could please email a copy to KIWANA or send it by whatsapp to the KIWANA phone number .
"The meeting will also want to hear whether you meet the integrity criteria set out the Constitution and how you plan to engage in the fight against corruption . Also your understanding of the national values and principles of governance as set out in Article 10 of Chapter 2," stated the letter.
Robert Alai, one of the Kileleshwa MCA aspirants, has confirmed that he will attend the screening session.
Research shows that regular interactions between voters and aspirants can be beneficial to both the candidates as well as the residents.
According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), poor representation of the youth as well as voters in crucial political exercises such as voting 'can impact on the quality of democratic governance.'
Therefore, youths aged between 18 and 25 years, are encouraged to get out and vote while holding the aspirants to account.
