As part of the build-up activities to the regional symposium on Constitutionalism, Term Limits and Public Debt Accountability in Africa, Katiba Institute, in partnership with the All-Kenya Moot Court Students Association, convened a preparatory conference at Kenyatta University School of Law.

The conference brought together university students from across Nairobi to discuss constitutionalism, human rights, governance, public debt, and civic accountability.

Opening the discussions, Katiba Institute Programmes Manager Patriciah Joseph emphasised that the Constitution of Kenya 2010 is not just a legal document, but a framework that shapes leadership, accountability, and the relationship between citizens and the state. She encouraged young people to actively defend constitutional values and participate in governance processes.

“Young people have always been agents of change, but change does not occur by chance. Recognising the link between rights, responsibilities and public resources enables citizens to question authority and demand accountability,” Patriciah noted.

Dr. Henry Paul Gichana, Katiba Institute’s Devolution and Research Officer, highlighted concerns over weak institutional accountability, warning that disregard for court orders undermines the rule of law and public trust in justice. He also raised concerns about Kenya’s growing public debt, citing limited transparency and inadequate public participation in borrowing and budget processes. He emphasised the importance of civic awareness, judicial oversight, and access to information in strengthening accountability and protecting constitutional governance.

Participants reflected on concerns around shrinking civic space, excessive force during protests, weak institutional accountability, and growing public debt. Discussions also highlighted the importance of judicial oversight, public participation, and protecting the independence of constitutional commissions.

Students examined thematic areas including electoral constitutionalism, fiscal accountability, civic space, and gender equality, with many stressing that laws alone are insufficient without implementation, oversight, and active citizen participation.

The conference provided a platform for young people to critically engage with governance challenges while strengthening constitutional literacy and civic awareness. A central message throughout the discussions was that constitutionalism survives when citizens understand it, defend it, and demand accountability from public institutions.