The government has issued a stern warning to politicians accused of recruiting criminal gangs and exploiting young people to intimidate opponents, saying those found engaging in political violence will face the full force of the law.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo said the government would not allow criminality and violence to undermine Kenya's democratic processes, urging political leaders to embrace peaceful competition ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during an interdenominational prayer service and Harambee fundraiser in support of 331 church choirs in Nyamira County, Omollo called on young people to reject politicians seeking to manipulate them for personal political interests.
"The Government has warned political leaders against recruiting criminal gangs or exploiting young people to intimidate opponents and disrupt public gatherings, saying those involved will face the full force of the law," the statement said.
Omollo stressed that political differences should be resolved through democratic means rather than violence or intimidation. "If you do not support a particular leader, wait for the elections and exercise your democratic right. Violence, intimidation and criminal gangs have no place in our politics," the PS said.
His remarks come amid heightened political activity across the country as parties continue to reposition themselves ahead of the next General Election, with concerns having been raised in recent months over isolated incidents of violence at political gatherings.
The Principal Secretary commended residents of Nyamira County for maintaining peace despite differing political opinions, saying the county had demonstrated that leaders and citizens could engage freely without resorting to violence.
He said Nyamira should serve as a model for peaceful political engagement, where citizens are free to express divergent views and return home safely after public meetings.
"Nyamira should serve as an example of how leaders and citizens can engage freely, express different views and return home peacefully," he said.
To reinforce security, Omollo directed the County Commissioner, National Government Administrative Officers and other security agencies to work closely with local leaders and communities to prevent political violence and ensure public gatherings are conducted peacefully.
"He directed the County Commissioner, National Government Administrative Officers and security agencies to work closely with local leaders and residents to safeguard peace, prevent political violence and ensure that public engagements are conducted without intimidation or disruption." Beyond security, the Principal Secretary announced that the government had operationalised additional administrative units in Nyamira County to improve access to government services.
He also encouraged qualified men and women of integrity to apply for the advertised positions of chiefs and assistant chiefs, saying effective grassroots administration plays a critical role in enhancing security, improving service delivery and promoting community development.
Omollo further urged Kenyans to reject leaders who promote ethnic or religious divisions for political gain, saying national unity remains critical to the country's development agenda.
He said President William Ruto's administration is committed to equitable development across all parts of the country through investments in roads, education, healthcare and employment opportunities. "Dr. Omollo further called on Kenyans to reject leaders promoting ethnic or religious divisions.
He said President William Ruto's administration was pursuing equitable development in roads, education, healthcare and employment opportunities across all regions to build a united and inclusive country."
The event was attended by Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, Presidential Advisor Farouk Kibet, nominated Senator Esther Okenyuri, Bungoma Senator Wafula Wakoli, Nyaribari Masaba MP Daniel Manduku, Solicitor General Shadrack Mose, Bomet Woman Representative Linet Toto, Nyamira Woman Representative Jerusha Momanyi, nominated MP Irene Mayaka, Kericho Woman Representative Beatrice Kemei, religious leaders, elders, elected representatives and residents from Nyamira, Kisii and neighbouring counties.