Discussions with Counsellor Michael Pietsch focus on strengthening values-based politics, empowering youth and women, and promoting issue-driven leadership.
Last week, the National Liberal Party (NLP) had the distinct privilege of visiting the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Kenya, where party representatives held a productive and insightful meeting with Mr. Michael Pietsch, the Counsellor for Political Affairs.
The discussions centered on shared democratic values and the liberal principles that form the foundation of modern, inclusive governance. The dialogue provided an important opportunity to reflect on how political institutions can strengthen democracy by shifting focus from personality-based politics to issue-driven and value-centered leadership.
Championing Values-Based Politics
During the meeting, both parties acknowledged that the health of a democracy is defined not by the dominance of individuals, but by the strength of ideas and policies that serve citizens. The NLP delegation emphasized the need for Kenya to cultivate a political culture grounded in principles of freedom, equality, opportunity, and responsibility, values that underpin the liberal democratic tradition.
The exchange highlighted how political parties can act as schools of democracy — nurturing citizens who think critically, engage constructively, and hold leaders accountable. Mr. Pietsch echoed this sentiment, noting that vibrant democracies thrive when political competition is rooted in ideas, not in personality cults or ethnic divisions.
Empowering Youth and Women in Leadership
A major focus of the discussion was the participation of youth and women in political and decision-making spaces. The NLP delegation underscored that Kenya’s democratic future depends on creating genuine pathways for young people and women to engage meaningfully in leadership — not as tokens, but as key drivers of change and innovation.
“Youth and women are the heart of any progressive society,” said the NLP representative. “Their voices, energy, and perspectives must be at the center of political discourse if we are to build a democracy that truly works for all.”
The party shared its ongoing initiatives to mentor young leaders, promote civic education, and support women aspiring to public office — part of its broader mission to ensure that leadership reflects the diversity and dynamism of Kenya’s people.
Partnerships for Democratic Growth
The meeting also explored avenues for collaboration and exchange between NLP and German institutions that promote democratic governance, civic participation, and political education. Both sides expressed interest in continued dialogue on strengthening liberal democracy through partnerships, policy innovation, and institutional capacity building.
Germany has long been a partner in advancing democratic governance across the globe, supporting values of pluralism, accountability, and human rights. The National Liberal Party recognized and appreciated this ongoing support, noting that such international cooperation plays a key role in empowering emerging parties like NLP to refine their vision and contribute constructively to national development.
A Commitment to Democratic Renewal
As the discussions concluded, the NLP delegation reaffirmed the party’s unwavering commitment to building a just, inclusive, and forward-looking society — one in which leadership is guided by integrity, transparency, and service to the public good.
“The National Liberal Party stands for leadership that listens, unites, and delivers,” the party noted. “We are determined to advance liberal values that place citizens at the center of governance and ensure that every Kenyan has the freedom and opportunity to thrive.”
The party expressed deep appreciation to the German Embassy for its warm hospitality and continued partnership in advancing democratic ideals. The visit marked another important step in NLP’s broader effort to engage with like-minded institutions and strengthen the foundations of issue-based politics in Kenya.
About the National Liberal Party (NLP)
The National Liberal Party is a political movement in Kenya committed to promoting liberal democratic values and fostering inclusive governance. Guided by the principles of freedom, equality, opportunity, and responsibility, NLP seeks to build a Kenya where leadership is accountable, politics is driven by ideas, and citizens actively shape their nation’s future.
