US based Kenyan politician Tuesday asked the youth to shun hooliganism and acts of vandalism during demonstrations.
Festus Gichaba who is also angling for the Bomachoge Chache parliamentary seat said destroying infrastructure and looting businesses rolls back gains the country has made over the decades.
“Violent demonstrations are not captured in the constitution and I think it is good that our youth be made to know so,” stated Gichaba.
Plunder and vandalism not only undermine the legitimacy of protests but also lead to unnecessary losses, he added.
Gichaba was speaking in Nyamasege area, Ogembo in Bomachoge Chache during a burial of a father and his daughter killed in an accident along the Kisii-Migori highway.
The hopeful spoke refering to the spate of violent protests that have roped in goons causing anarchy in various parts of the country.
At least 15 people were gunned down during the Saba Saba demonstrations Monday.
Gichaba said while the right to protest is protected by the Constitution, it should be exercised peacefully and responsibly.
“Young people must understand that destroying property and looting businesses only harms the very communities they seek to defend,” he said.
“Let us channel our grievances constructively and uphold peace,” he told mourners.
Kisii Deputy Governor Elijah Obebo who was present, urged the electorate to rally behind former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiangi’s quest for presidency.
Separately, Gichaba emphasized the need for dialogue and called on authorities to listen to the concerns raised by the country’s youth adding, they are often the most affected by economic and social injustices.
He however also called on organizers of the protests to ensure proper coordination and sensitization to prevent infiltration by criminal elements.
“Violence derails the cause. Let us be firm in our message but peaceful in our methods,” he added.
On local development, Gichaba vowed pledged to inject fresh energy into the constituency’s development agenda if elected in the upcoming elections.
Bomachoge Chache, he said, is region with immense potential that has remained untapped due to “decades of neglect and poor leadership.”
“Our roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and youth programs need urgent attention. The people deserve better,” he said, drawing applause from the crowd.
He outlined plans to champion infrastructure upgrades, improve access to clean water, support small businesses, and enhance agricultural productivity.
He also promised to push for more bursaries and education support for needy students.
The aspirant urged residents to elect leaders based on vision and integrity rather than party politics or empty promises.
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