“Politics Must Be a Contest of Ideas, Not Violence,” Owalo says

Nairobi, Kenya, August 19 – Presidential candidate Eliud Owalo has expressed deep concern over the surge in political violence and intolerance engulfing the nation in the lead-up to the 2027 General Election. Owalo called on Kenyans to reject a return to the days of political turmoil, where differences were settled through acts of aggression, intimidation, and destruction of property. He emphasized that political contests must revolve around ideas, policies, and leadership, rather than resorting to violence.

Owalo highlighted recent incidents, such as the Ol Kalou by-election and attacks in Homa Bay County, as alarming signs that the political culture in Kenya needs a decisive overhaul. He warned that the recruitment and mobilization of young people to engage in political attacks was particularly troubling, as these individuals should be focusing on building the country's future rather than perpetrating violence against their fellow citizens.

Drawing from the Constitution's provisions guaranteeing the rights to peaceful assembly, political participation, and freedom of movement under Articles 37, 38, and 39, Owalo urged the National Police Service and investigative agencies to investigate political violence with impartiality and bring to justice those responsible, regardless of their political affiliations.

He urged Kenyans to participate in the upcoming election freely, attend political gatherings, support the candidate of their choice, and cast their votes without fear.

Owalo appealed to political leaders and their supporters to abandon provocation and ensure that political competition remains peaceful, vowing, "Let us refuse to make violence the language of Kenyan politics."