By Shaban Omar
With political temperatures rising and fears of youth recruitment into electoral violence growing, stakeholders in Kwale have stepped up peace campaigns aimed at preventing young people from being used to cause chaos during the 2027 General Election.
The stakeholders have urged the youth to reject political violence, remain peaceful and avoid being manipulated by politicians seeking to advance their interests through chaos.
Speaking during International Youth Day celebrations in Ng’ombeni, Matuga, Social Services County Executive Fransisca Kilonzo urged youth to remain tolerant and peaceful during the electoral period.
Kilonzo warned against politicians who may exploit the vulnerability of young people by recruiting them into violence before, during and after the elections.
“The habit of youth being misused during campaigns must stop. Let’s respect ourselves and we will be respected,” she said.
She urged young people to scrutinize politicians and support leaders who positively impact their lives instead of those who recruit them into goonism and political violence.
Kilonzo said some politicians hide behind the security of their armored vehicles while sending young people into the streets to cause chaos, leaving them to bear the risks and consequences of violence.
She challenged the youth to demand meaningful opportunities and development from leaders rather than being mobilised to engage in riots and confrontations.
Youth County Director Kent Simiyu similarly urged young people to shun politicians who promote violence and allow everyone to exercise their political rights freely and peacefully.
Simiyu said goonism would not bring meaningful change, arguing that responsible voting remained a more powerful tool for shaping the country’s future.
“If a politician gives you money, take it, but don’t take their advice to disrupt peace,” he said.
He encouraged young people to focus beyond elections by nurturing their talents, pursuing self-employment opportunities and becoming responsible citizens.
We World officer John Elly urged the youth to vote wisely and play a leading role in promoting peace and security before, during and after the 2027 General Election.
Elly said young people should arm themselves with voter cards and democratic rights rather than weapons to influence political change.
He warned against being exploited by politicians for petty cash, saying no amount of money was worth risking lives or destroying community peace.
“Let no one offer you Sh500 to harm another person. Let us maintain peace because it is our responsibility,” he said.
Elly urged the youth to use their numbers positively by participating in civic activities, holding leaders accountable and demanding development instead of engaging in political violence.
He said elections come and go, but the consequences of violence can affect individuals, families and communities for years.
Matuga Assistant County Commissioner Florence Muriuki urged communities to reject attempts by politicians to divide them along tribal and religious lines, saying such divisions could undermine peace and cohesion.
Muriuki cautioned young people against falling prey to politicians seeking to advance selfish interests, urging them to remain vigilant and make responsible choices.
She further urged communities to avoid actions that fuel tensions and collectively guide youth towards peace, unity and development.
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