By S, KNA
A section of youth from Kasipul constituency have condemned rising cases of political violence in the region ahead of the November 27 parliamentary by-election.
Led by Ronald Odhiambo, a member of the Kasipul Gen Z movement, the youth decried the increasing trend of politicians using young people to perpetrate violence during campaigns.
“We are tired of being used as tools of violence. Politicians are arming youths with rungus and machetes to attack one another for their selfish interests. As the youth of Kasipul, we have decided to stand for peace and reject violence,” he informed.
Speaking to journalists Monday, he urged fellow young people to reject manipulation by politicians and instead focus on promoting peace and unity within the constituency.
Another youth, George Kizito, emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence, urging residents to choose leaders based on their ideologies rather than handouts.
“We want peace in Kasipul. We may not share the same opinion or support the same candidate, but that should not make us enemies. Stern action should be taken against those who disrupt peace and promote violence,” he stated.
The group also called on security agencies to expedite investigations into the brutal killing of two youths, identified as Ben Ondiego and Bruno Ondoro, a boda boda rider, who were hacked to death last week during a political confrontation in the area.
Meanwhile, the newly posted Homa Bay County Commissioner, Ronald Mwiwawi, said security agencies are working closely with the Homa Bay County Interfaith Network to restore calm and prevent further violence.
“We met with the county interfaith committee to deliberate on how the clergy can help rebuild peace in Kasipul and across the county,” Mwiwawi said.
He urged religious leaders in Rachuonyo South to use their influence to guide residents toward tolerance and respect.
“Let us not have rival political teams confronting each other. Such encounters often end in loss of lives. We must fear God and respect one another despite our political differences,” he warned.
