East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member Hon. Suleiman Shahbal has called on university and college students to take an active role in shaping the country’s future by electing visionary leaders with clear development agendas in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking as chief guest during a leadership and mentorship forum for college and university students from Mombasa County at the Bandari Maritime Academy, Hon. Shahbal emphasized that educated youth have a responsibility to drive meaningful change rather than follow ineffective leadership.
He cautioned that genuine transformation cannot be achieved through social media activism alone.
“Change does not come through TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Today, we are being led by some of the most ineffective leaders this country has ever seen. They have no agenda, no vision, no development plan,” Shahbal said.
The EALA MP, who represents Kenya at the regional assembly, challenged students to view their education as both a privilege and a duty to contribute to national progress. He urged them to reject superficial political appeals and instead demand accountability, integrity, and competence from those seeking elective office.
“You are the educated leaders. You are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but of today. We must change our country, and you are the agents of that change. You are either the problem or the solution. I urge you to be the solution,” he added.
Shahbal highlighted the connection between good governance, economic growth and job creation, noting that the election of capable leaders would expand opportunities for young people. He encouraged students to actively participate in the electoral process, including voter registration and civic engagement, and to scrutinize candidates based on their track records and policy proposals.
“Now is the time, as 2027 approaches, for you to stand up and ensure that leaders are elected based on merit and vision. Do not support individuals simply because they appear appealing. Be at the forefront of ensuring we get the right leaders,” he said.
Also addressing the forum, Swahili Pot Hub Foundation founder Mahmoud Noor urged young people to uphold strong ethical values and embrace innovative approaches to leadership.
He stressed that restoring the country’s socio-economic stability depends largely on the integrity and active involvement of the youth.
“For us to return the country to its glory, it depends on young people standing firm on ethics and values,” Noor said.
He encouraged students to engage in voluntary community service as a way of addressing societal challenges, including weakening family structures and limited social support systems.
“You can be a leader without holding a title. It is up to us to volunteer within our communities. Society is experiencing gaps, and when you step forward to serve, you help bridge those gaps,” he added.
The forum brought together student leaders, educators and civil society representatives in a dialogue focused on leadership, governance, and youth empowerment ahead of the 2027 polls.
By Sitati Reagan & Nassib Ramadhan
