Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has appealed to the political class to immediately end the growing culture of political goonism, warning that violence at public gatherings could undermine the country’s democratic gains as the 2027 General Election approaches.
Speaking during the annual St. Ignatius Mukumu Boys High School Prayer Day in Kakamega County, Lusaka condemned recent incidents where hired goons have disrupted public meetings, saying leaders sponsoring such acts were steering the country onto a dangerous path.
The event brought together a host of leaders led by Kakamega Governor FCPA Fernandes Barasa, Shinyalu MP Fred Ikana, and other political, religious and education leaders.
“Kenya must never return to the dark days of politically instigated violence. Leaders must reject the culture of hiring goons to intimidate opponents or disrupt public engagements. Politics should be anchored on ideas, respect and peaceful coexistence,” Lusaka said.
The Governor cautioned that with the 2027 elections drawing closer, unchecked political intolerance could plunge the country into unnecessary conflict, urging all leaders to safeguard peace and uphold democratic values.
In his capacity as President William Ruto’s Western Region Re-election Coordinator, Lusaka rallied the Mulembe Nation to consolidate behind President Ruto’s re-election bid by turning its numerical strength into political influence through massive voter registration.
He urged all eligible residents across Western Kenya to register as voters, saying the region was targeting four million registered voters to strengthen its bargaining power in national leadership and secure a decisive victory for President Ruto in 2027.
“Western Kenya is one of the country’s most populous regions. It is time our numbers are reflected at the ballot. Every eligible voter must register because our collective voice will determine our place in the national development agenda,” he said.
Addressing the students, Lusaka challenged them to embrace discipline, consistency and hard work, noting that academic excellence remains the surest pathway to leadership, innovation and career success.
He further urged learners to reject peer pressure, drug abuse, vandalism of school property and other indiscipline, regretting that recent cases of school unrest had left parents bearing heavy financial losses through destruction of learning facilities.
“Your future is determined by the choices you make today. Stay focused, respect your teachers, protect your school and work hard to achieve your dreams,” he told the candidates, while wishing the Form Four class success in the forthcoming national examinations.
During the occasion, Governor Lusaka presented KSh1 million on behalf of President William Ruto towards the St. Ignatius Mukumu Boys Endowment Fund, a contribution aimed at supporting vulnerable and needy students to access uninterrupted education.
The event underscored the twin message of promoting peaceful politics ahead of the 2027 elections while reaffirming the government’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities and empowering the next generation through sustained investment in learning.
