Residents of Kisii ushered in the New Year with colourful celebrations marked by music, dance, prayer and renewed hope for the future.
Families and friends gathered across the town and surrounding villages to welcome 2026.
County Governor Simba Arati, led staff, Ward Representatives, artists and journalists to usher the new year at his Motonto residence in Bobasi.
The governor urged for responsible jounalism further urging the musicians present to sell the region positively.
He said away from politics, the region has huge economic potential to be tapped.
The County boss said his administration was welcome to criticism as a common good to help him rectify mistakes.
“We don’t fear criticism because only through it do we know where we are have gone wrong and rectify,” he stated.
Those who attended were treated to a raffle with one winning a car as the New Year Gift.
At Cardinal Otunga Mosocho, regional Catholic Prelate Joseph Mairura urged for tolerance during a homily to male faithful as the year starts off.
The Prelate strongly cautioned politicians against the use of goons and hired gangs to intimidate opponents and disrupt public gatherings, saying the practice is fueling insecurity and undermining democracy.
He said political competition should never be conducted through violence or fear, but through ideas and respect for the rule of law.
“Leaders who claim to serve the people must reject violence in all its forms. The use of goons to silence opponents or scare citizens is immoral, unpatriotic, and dangerous to our nation’s future,” the prelate said.
He noted that the increasing cases of political violence, especially during rallies and grassroots meetings, were eroding public trust in leadership and discouraging young people from participating positively in civic life.
Kitutu Chache South Parliamentary Aspirant Patrick Lumumba said he hopes the new year would usher in significant development in the area saying the residents were hurting from poor services.
Marani Ward Rep Denis Ombachi on his part rallied the electorate to support Fred Matiangi’s bid for Presidency.
In downtown Kisii revellers flocked to entertainment spots, while others chose quieter celebrations at home.
Hotels hosted packed events featuring local artists.
Some churches held overnight prayer services, drawing large congregations seeking blessings and guidance for the year ahead.
At Embassy Chapel, Pastor Peter Morwabe urged the faithful to embrace unity, hard work, and peace, while praying for improved livelihoods, good health, and stability in the country.
Security agencies maintained a visible presence to ensure peaceful celebrations.
Police officers conducted patrols around major roads and entertainment areas, and no major incidents were reported by Thursday morning.
Arati reminded residents to celebrate responsibly and take care of their wellbeing.
In rural areas, families marked the occasion with shared meals, storytelling, and cultural songs, reinforcing strong community bonds.
Many residents said the New Year celebrations provided a welcome break after a challenging year.
As the sun rose on New Year’s Day, Kisii residents expressed optimism and determination to work together for development and prosperity, setting a hopeful tone for the months ahead.
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