PS Raymond Omollo Declares Zero Tolerance Against Political Violence Going Forward
The government has issued a firm warning against rising cases of political violence, with Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo declaring a zero-tolerance stance on hooliganism and unlawful conduct during political activities.
Speaking in Nyeri County on Sunday, March 1, Omollo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding peace and stability while upholding democratic freedoms, including the right to free expression.
He emphasized that while citizens are entitled to participate in political processes, such freedoms must be exercised within the confines of the law. “This administration reaffirms its position that hooliganism and disorder will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” Omollo stated, adding that security agencies remain on high alert to maintain public order.
The Principal Secretary’s remarks come against the backdrop of increasing incidents of violence linked to political gatherings across the country. A recent rally in Kakamega County, organised by a faction associated with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), turned deadly after clashes led to the death of one supporter and injuries to several others.
The incident has since sparked controversy, with organisers accusing state agencies of orchestrating the violence. However, preliminary investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) suggest a different narrative.
According to investigators, individuals who disrupted the rally may have been mobilised by the organisers themselves. Authorities further indicated that some of the suspects had allegedly been transported from other counties to participate in the unrest.
Police arrested 14 individuals in connection with the incident, though 10 were later released. Law enforcement officials maintained that the suspects were not residents of Kakamega County, raising concerns about coordinated efforts to incite violence at political events.
Addressing the matter, Omollo cautioned against the growing trend of using violence as a political tool, urging leaders and their supporters to embrace peaceful engagement.
He stated that “any cases involving intimidation, violence, or unlawful mobilisation must be reported through the appropriate legal channels,” underscoring the government’s commitment to accountability and the rule of law.
Beyond political stability, the Interior Ministry is also intensifying efforts to address broader social challenges affecting communities. Omollo highlighted ongoing operations to curb the illicit alcohol trade in Nyeri, noting that local administrators are working under the leadership of County Commissioner Josephat Biwot to enhance public safety.
At the same time, he expressed concern over increasing cases of gender-based violence (GBV), calling for a collective response from community leaders and residents.
“We must work together as a society to protect vulnerable members of our communities and strengthen social cohesion,” he urged, advocating for closer collaboration between national government officials, chiefs, assistant chiefs, village elders, and elected leaders.
Omollo’s statements also follow a recent Interior Ministry report detailing how political actors allegedly organise and finance violence. The report outlines a structured recruitment approach targeting vulnerable groups, including boda boda operators, casual labourers, and unemployed youth, who are often lured by financial incentives.
As political tensions continue to simmer in parts of the country, the government’s renewed warning signals a tougher stance on perpetrators of violence, even as authorities seek to balance enforcement with the protection of constitutional freedoms.
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PS Raymond Omollo Declares Zero Tolerance Against Political Violence Going Forward
