Rachuonyo South Deputy County Commissioner Sylvester Mwangulu has issued a stern warning against individuals and groups hiring goons to intimidate political opponents, saying the government will firmly deal with those behind politically instigated violence.
Speaking during a public baraza held in Oyugis to install the newly appointed West Kamagak Location Chief, Ruth Chan, Mwangulu said security agencies would pursue criminal gangs and their sponsors, arrest them and ensure they are prosecuted to safeguard peace and public order.
He blamed illegal gangs and externally sponsored agitators for violent disruptions that have in the past crippled trade, transport and other economic activities, stressing that the government would adopt a zero-tolerance approach to political violence.
“The story of goons and illegal gangs must end. There will be no more stories of people being hired to terrorize others or disrupt our economy. If you choose to cross the line, be prepared for arrests and prosecution,” said Mwangulu.
The Deputy County Commissioner said the crackdown was necessary to preserve stability ahead of the next General Election, adding that the government had already identified crime hotspots across the country, including areas previously affected by election-related unrest.
“We have identified hotspots for violence, including here in Oyugis. Those who hire youth to cause mayhem under the guise of political activism will be held personally responsible,” he warned.
Mwangulu noted that politically instigated violence and unlawful demonstrations disrupt businesses, interfere with transport services and undermine economic growth by creating an environment of insecurity.
Drawing from his experience during the 2007/2008 post-election violence, Mwangulu said he had witnessed the devastating impact of politically motivated conflicts on families and communities.
“I was a coordinator for internally displaced persons during the 2007/08 post-election violence. I saw lives lost and families displaced. We will not allow politicians to split our communities or pit one tribe against another,” he said.
He urged residents to remain united and reject attempts by politicians or outsiders to incite them along tribal or political lines.
“If anyone comes here to incite you, tell them to go back where they came from. We will not have our markets burned or our houses destroyed again,” he said.
Mwangulu added that enforcement efforts would target not only those involved in violence but also organizers, financiers and individuals spreading inflammatory messages capable of inciting unrest.
He said the government was also implementing programmes aimed at addressing youth unemployment by creating economic opportunities that would reduce vulnerability to political manipulation.
Among the initiatives he cited were the Nyota Programme, through which 197 youths in Kasipul Constituency have received financial support, and the Affordable Housing Programme in Oyugis, which is creating employment opportunities while contributing to local development.
He urged young people to take advantage of government empowerment programmes instead of allowing themselves to be used to perpetrate violence during political activities.
By Moseti Julius
