By GEOFREY KASERA: Former ICT CS and presidential hopeful Eliud Owalo has issued a strong statement condemning the rising tide of political violence, goonism, and intimidation across Kenya.

Referencing recent unrest during the Ol Kalou by-election and targeted attacks against opposition figures in Homa Bay County, Owalo warned against slipping back into an era where political rivalries are settled through intimidation, destruction of property, and the mobilization of hired gangs.

He highlighted the tragic exploitation of Kenya’s youth, noting that young citizens are too often recruited, paid, and deployed as tools for violence rather than being empowered to build businesses, create jobs, and shape the nation’s future.

Emphasizing that politics must remain a peaceful contest of ideas, leadership, and policies, Owalo pointed out that no Kenyan should ever be reduced to hired muscle for political interests.

Citing the Constitution of Kenya 2010, Owalo underlined that fundamental freedoms are non-negotiable rights belonging to every citizen.

Articles 37, 38, and 39 guarantee the right to peaceful assembly, political participation, and free movement across all corners of the nation.

Firmly rejecting the notion of “political zones” or regional dominance, he declared that every part of the country, from Homa Bay and Ol Kalou to Nairobi, belongs equally to all Kenyans.

Calling for strict, non-partisan accountability, Owalo urged the National Police Service and investigative agencies to conduct thorough, transparent probes into all acts of violence regardless of the victim’s or perpetrator’s political ties.

He insisted that those who plan, finance, transport, or incite violence must face individual justice. Looking ahead to the 2027 General Election, Owalo appealed to citizens and leaders alike to exercise restraint, respect the rule of law, and reject violence as a political tool.