National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on Kenyan politicians and young people to reject political violence and embrace peaceful, issue-based campaigns as the country heads towards the 2027 General Election.
Speaking in Ikolomani while conveying his condolences to Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale following the death of his wife, Mama Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale, Wetang’ula said political differences should never be allowed to destroy the bonds that unite Kenyans.
“I plead again with our young people and, indeed, even with us as politicians, to endeavor to remain peaceful because, away from politics, we are all brothers and sisters. Politics must never divide us.”
The Speaker warned that the emerging culture of political goonism could pose a serious threat to national security and undermine Kenyans’ right to participate peacefully in the political process.
He urged political leaders to compete on the strength of ideas, policies and development agendas, rather than using intimidation, violence or groups of youths to confront political opponents.
Wetang’ula’s remarks were echoed by other leaders, who stressed that maintaining peace will be critical to protecting Kenya’s economic progress and social cohesion as political activities intensify ahead of 2027.
Ikolomani MP Innocent Mugabe called on residents to maintain peace during Mama Gloria’s final send-off and to give all leaders attending the ceremony a respectful reception regardless of their political affiliations.
“As Ikolomani people, we are peace-loving Kenyans, and I ask that we demonstrate the same tomorrow during the final send-off,” Mugabe said.
Kakamega County MP Elsie Muhanda also appealed for tolerance, describing the late Mama Gloria as an accommodating and hospitable person whose final ceremony should reflect the same spirit of unity and respect.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargey urged Kenyans not to mistake political disagreements for personal conflicts. He described Senator Khalwale as one of the Senate’s strong debaters and said differences in opinion should remain part of democratic debate rather than become a trigger for confrontation.
As Kenya looks towards the 2027 polls, Wetang’ula’s message puts the focus on the kind of political contest the country should expect—one where leaders compete through ideas and policies without turning political differences into violence.
Wetang’ula also conveyed President William Ruto’s condolences and goodwill to the bereaved Khalwale family.
