Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has strongly condemned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's proposal to recruit youths as civilian vote protectors during the 2027 General Election. Murkomen emphasized the need for peaceful political engagements free from intimidation or violence.
Speaking against the backdrop of Gachagua's call to mobilize volunteers to secure political rallies and polling stations, Murkomen urged all political leaders to avoid involving unofficial security groups or youth militias.
Murkomen's Stance on Political Security
- Political gatherings should remain orderly and free from intimidation.
- No individual should carry weapons such as clubs or crude arms to rallies or polling stations.
- The government will take strict legal action against anyone recruiting youths for violent purposes or participating in such activities.
- Police, under Inspector General Douglas Kanja, are already implementing measures to maintain security ahead of the elections.
"We reject the use of goons in politics. Leaders must allow peaceful discourse without resorting to violence or intimidation," Murkomen stated, specifically addressing the call for youth mobilization in Mt Kenya.
Context of Gachagua's Proposal
Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), proposed deploying civilian volunteers to guard votes and rallies, citing lessons from the recent Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election. He framed the initiative as a form of self-defense to ensure electoral integrity.
Murkomen cautioned against associating Mt Kenya youths with banned groups and reiterated that the rule of law will apply equally to all involved in any form of election-related violence.
