NYANZA – In a strongly worded address that has sent ripples through the South Nyanza political landscape, Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo has issued a firm warning to political leaders in Migori County, cautioning them against the dangerous trend of mobilizing and arming youths to perpetrate political violence.
Speaking during a security briefing in Awendo town on Friday, the senior Ministry of Interior official expressed deep concern over what he termed a “worrying resurgence” of political thuggery in the region. He cautioned that the long arm of the law would catch up with any leader, regardless of their stature, found to be inciting violence or engaging criminal gangs to settle political scores.
“Let me be very clear and direct. The security apparatus in Nyanza, and Kenya at large, will not tolerate leaders who use our young people as weapons to advance their selfish political ambitions,” PS Omollo stated.
“We are seeing emerging trends in Migori where youths are being lured with handouts and empty promises, only to be turned into cannon fodder during political disagreements. This must stop immediately, and it must stop now,” he added.
The PS, who hails from the region, emphasized that while political competition is a healthy part of democracy, it should never come at the cost of peace and stability. He called out the “short-sightedness” of leaders who, in their quest for power, are willing to destabilize the county and put innocent lives at risk.
Targeting the Masterminds
Omollo assured residents that the National Police Service (NPS) has been placed on high alert. He directed the Regional Police Commander and the Migori County Security team to shift their focus from just arresting the youths involved in skirmishes to identifying and apprehending the financiers and masterminds behind the violence.
“It is not enough to just arrest the young men holding stones or crude weapons. We are going after the ‘big men’—the politicians and their agents who are funding the purchase of illicit brew, hiring goons, and stockpiling weapons. We have our eyes on you, and we know who you are. Desist from this path, or face the full force of the law,” he warned.
The PS’s remarks come against a backdrop of heightened political temperatures in Migori, which has a history of heated political rivalries. Recent skirmishes have been reported in parts of the county, with competing youth groups allegedly aligned to different political factions clashing during rallies and public gatherings.
A Plea to the Youth
Beyond the tough talk aimed at political elites, PS Omollo made a direct appeal to the youth of Migori. He urged them to reject attempts by politicians to manipulate them into committing crimes that would destroy their futures.
“To the youth: You are the future of this county, not the fuel for someone’s political fire. Do not sell your destiny for a few hundred shillings or a plate of food,” he pleaded. “When you are arrested for arson or assault, the same politician who sent you will deny ever knowing you. You will rot in cell while they sit in boardrooms. Do not be their pawns.”
The PS concluded by assuring the people of Migori that the government is committed to ensuring a peaceful environment conducive for development. He urged residents to cooperate with security agencies and report any individuals trying to recruit youths for violent activities.
Leaders from various wards who were present at the meeting nodded in agreement, though political analysts note that the message will likely resonate most with the kingpins who often use militia groups to intimidate opponents and control resources during the electioneering period.
As the political climate continues to evolve in Nyanza, PS Omollo’s message serves as a clear warning: the era of using youth as tools of political violence in Migori must come to a definitive end.
