Kisumu County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo (CC) has lauded the improved security in the area, citing renewed spirit of cooperation between the public, local leaders and security agencies.
Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Ground, Leparmorijo said Kisumu had in recent months demonstrated maturity and restraint during emotionally charged moments, including political gatherings, Saba Saba commemorations and the recent public viewing of the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
He made a special mention of the public viewing of the former PM Raila Odinga’s body on Saturday at the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium, which attracted thousands of mourners, but ended peacefully without a single incident of insecurity.
“I want to sincerely thank all our leaders and residents because Kisumu has remained calm. People were expecting chaos, but instead, we showed discipline and unity. I received many congratulatory messages acknowledging how peaceful we were,” he said.
The CC attributed the positive change to increased dialogue between leaders and youth, as well as the active involvement of community members in maintaining law and order.
Leparmorijo particularly singled out the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party for mobilizing 350 youths who volunteered to help control crowds and manage traffic during the viewing of Raila Odinga’s body at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium.
“These young people did a commendable job. Their cooperation with security officers helped ensure that the event, which attracted thousands of mourners, proceeded smoothly. When we put our efforts together, we can always maintain peace,” he said.
The CC noted that Kisumu’s ability to remain peaceful during the recent high-profile events was a clear indication that the county’s long struggle with politically motivated unrests was coming to an end.
He also thanked political leaders for engaging youths constructively, averting protests during traditionally tense periods such as the Saba Saba Day.
However, Leparmorijo warned that with schools set to close for the long holiday, there was often an upsurge in petty crimes and insecurity within estates and trading centers.
He called on parents, teachers, and local administrators to remain alert and proactive in guiding young people during the break.
“As schools close, we usually experience an increase in insecurity. We are appealing to parents and all of us to be vigilant so that we continue enjoying the peace we’ve seen in recent months,” he said.
Leparmorijo assured residents that security agencies were on high alert and would continue working closely with the public to safeguard lives and property.
He emphasized that sustaining peace was a collective responsibility and hailed the ongoing collaboration among all stakeholders.
“Our unity has been our strength. Let us continue in this spirit so that Kisumu remains a model of tranquility and progress,” he said.
The CC concluded by expressing confidence that the peace witnessed in recent weeks marked a turning point for Kisumu, a city once synonymous with political tension, but now emerging as an example of civic responsibility and community-driven stability.
by Chris Mahandara
