A section of the public has expressed concerns over President William Ruto’s directive to train National Youth Service (NYS) recruits in handling firearms.

While addressing thousands of NYS graduates during their ceremony, President Ruto emphasized the need for such training.

William Otieno from Siaya County voiced his apprehension, stating that arming NYS recruits could pose a threat to public safety.

“They graduate in thousands every year, and many remain jobless for extended periods. This training could make it easier for them to access guns, potentially disturbing the peace in the country,” Otieno expressed.

Vincent Wafula from Kakamega echoed these concerns in a phone interview with Kondele News.

“I would only support NYS recruits being trained to handle firearms if they are guaranteed positions within the disciplined forces. Training them and then allowing them to live as civilians is dangerous,” Wafula cautioned.

Mary Anne Awino from Nairobi added, “We have seen the damage caused by illegal firearms in the hands of criminals. Allowing more people to handle guns is a risk we cannot afford. We must be cautious.”