Interior Principal Secretary (PD) Raymond Omollo has warned that the government will not tolerate political violence or the use of goons to disrupt lawful gatherings, even as he reaffirmed the right of all Kenyans to assemble and express their views.
Speaking at the Jomo Kenyatta Sports Grounds in Kisumu after a meeting with boda boda leaders, Omollo said while Kenya remains a democratic state that guarantees freedom of assembly, such rights must be exercised within the confines of the law.
“We are a country governed by the rule of law. Everyone has a right to hold meetings and engage the public, but it must be done procedurally. No one should threaten others or disrupt lawful engagements,” he said.
The PS emphasised that individuals or groups planning public meetings must notify the police in advance, adding that security agencies will act firmly against those inciting chaos or intimidating others.
His remarks come amid rising political activity and claims by some groups of planned disruptions of rival meetings.
Omollo was speaking after a consultative forum with boda boda leaders and operators drawn from all seven constituencies of Kisumu County that include Muhoroni, Nyakach, Seme, Kisumu East, Kisumu West, Kisumu Central and Nyando, where he also sought to rally the sector behind the government’s development and security agenda under President William Ruto.
During the meeting, the PS positioned the boda boda sector as a critical partner in community policing, noting that riders are uniquely placed to support intelligence gathering, due to their mobility and daily interaction with the public.
“They transport many people and are able to observe movements across communities. With proper coordination, they can support our security agencies through information sharing,” he said.
He also reaffirmed a directive by President Ruto for the release of motorcycles impounded over minor offences, saying Regional Police Commanders had already been instructed to ensure compliance.
However, he maintained that cases involving serious offences would follow due legal process.
At the same time, the PS urged operators to embrace regulation, including registration, proper identification, insurance and valid riding licenses, as part of efforts to streamline the sector.
Beyond security, the PS linked the engagement to the government’s broader youth empowerment strategy, noting that the boda boda industry remains a key source of livelihood for young people.
He cited ongoing initiatives such as the NYOTA programme, the Affordable Housing Programme, digital jobs and the labour mobility scheme, as part of efforts to tackle unemployment.
“This Administration is deliberate in creating opportunities for the youth. The boda boda sector is one of the areas where many young people earn a living, and we must support and organise it better,” he said.
Omollo also cautioned political leaders against exploiting unemployed youth for disruptive activities, urging them instead to leverage available resources, including Constituency Development Funds, to support empowerment initiatives.
The meeting was attended by a cross-section of leaders from the Region, including County officials, Members of Parliament and Members of County Assembly, as the government intensifies grassroots engagement in Nyanza.
By Chris Mahandara
