A group of youth dubbed ‘I stand for peace’ from Central Kenya region, calls for peaceful campaigns ahead of August General Elections.
Led by their Spokesman, Stephen Chege, the youth group has called on their counterparts not to be swayed into divisive politics by rogue politicians, saying that they should learn to say no and be peace advocates before and after the elections.
“As a youth, you should not be used by political aspirants who are seeking various elective positions to cause chaos, instead you should be agents of peace,” said Chege during a peaceful walk held at Murang’a town.
According to Chege, the youth group will embark on peace advocacy in all parts of the region, to enable Kenyans be in a position to make informed decisions come August Poll.
“The message of peace should be amplified and sustained through the region during and after the election,” observed Chege.
Chege also cautioned the political aspirants to desist from careless utterance that might spark violence in the region and instead advocate for issue based politics for the sake of peace and unity.
“We should embrace political tolerance and conduct peaceful campaigns regardless of our political affiliations,” he said.
Alex Mogaka, the youth group’s Coordinator, encouraged the aspirants to demonstrate a high level of tolerance to ensure peace prevails in the lead up, during and after elections.
He called for winners and losers, especially those going for party nominations, to be ready to accept the outcome of the poll and ensure peaceful coexistence.
“The aspirants hold the key to ensuring the stability of the region by their actions and their utterances,” said Mogaka, adding that whoever wins shall be given the opportunity to serve Kenyans.
Martin Wairimu, a business man urged the politicians to make personal commitment to maintain peace before, during and after the election.
“We would like to have campaigns free of chaos and I believe this is possible,” said Wairimu, noting that every electioneering period businesses are affected when there is chaos and some people are not able to recover from the loss.
Caroline Macharia, a youth from the region, encouraged the politician to be mindful of their actions, saying women and children are the ones who are affected gravely, when violence occurs during or after elections.
“Let us be mindful about our people’s lives, especially of our mothers and children and ensure their safety during this electioneering period,” said Macharia.
By Anita Omwenga
