Kakamega Woman Representative aspirant Faith Maurine Owotsi has raised alarm over what she described as the growing culture of political violence and the use of hired goons in Kakamega County, warning that the trend threatens the county’s long-standing reputation for peaceful political engagement.
Speaking on Saturday Morning during a meeting with residents, Maurine called on political leaders, supporters and voters to reject violence and embrace issue-based campaigns as political activities begin to intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election.
She said the increasing cases of disrupted meetings, intimidation of opponents and deployment of hired gangs during political gatherings undermine democracy and deny voters the opportunity to make informed choices.
“Leadership should be about presenting ideas and solutions to the people, not intimidating opponents through violence and fear. Kakamega residents deserve peaceful politics that unite rather than divide communities,” Maurine said.
The aspiring Woman Representative noted that Kakamega, Kenya’s most populous county with more than 1.8 million residents, plays a critical role in the country’s political landscape and should set an example of tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
Agriculture remains the backbone of the county’s economy, with sugarcane and maize farming supporting thousands of families across the region.
Maurine urged young people not to allow themselves to be used by politicians seeking to advance their interests through violence. Instead, she encouraged them to participate constructively in leadership and development initiatives that can improve livelihoods and create economic opportunities.
She further appealed to security agencies to take firm action against individuals sponsoring political violence, saying all candidates should be allowed to campaign freely without fear of harassment or intimidation.
Her remarks come at a time when political competition in Kakamega is beginning to gather momentum. The county is currently represented in the National Assembly by Elsie Busihile Muhanda, who has served as Woman Representative since 2017 and recently confirmed her intention to contest the Kakamega gubernatorial seat in 2027.
Maurine maintained that violence has never delivered meaningful development and urged residents to judge leaders based on their policies, integrity and commitment to service.
“As leaders, we must preach peace, tolerance and respect for differing opinions. Elections will come and go, but our people must continue living together as one community,” she said.
She called on all political players in Kakamega to uphold democratic values and ensure that future campaigns are characterized by civility, respect and peaceful competition.