Kisumu Central parliamentary aspirant Edward Onyango, popularly known as Bob CEO, called for peace and political restraint after two young people were killed in recent violence in the constituency.
He leaders to reject intimidation as Kenya prepares for the 2027 general election.
Speaking while conveying his condolences to the bereaved families, Onyango said the deaths underscored the need to preserve peace and unity in the constituency.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of two young lives. My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families. No political ambition is worth the blood of our youth,” he said.
Onyango said Kisumu Central had built a reputation as a vibrant commercial hub where people from different communities had lived together peacefully, warning that political violence threatened both lives and economic progress.
He urged politicians across the political divide to exercise restraint and focus on addressing residents’ concerns rather than deepening divisions.
“As we approach the 2027 General Election, we must reject politics of violence, intimidation, and division. Leadership should be driven by ideas, development, and service to the people,” he said.
Onyango said young people often bear the greatest cost when political tensions escalate and called for greater investment in education, employment, entrepreneurship and healthcare instead of allowing youth to be drawn into violence.
“Our young people deserve jobs, quality education, business opportunities, better healthcare, and hope. They deserve a future built on opportunity, not one overshadowed by political intolerance,” he said.
He also appealed to residents to remain united despite political differences and called on community leaders, religious organisations, civil society groups and security agencies to work together to maintain peace before, during and after the election period.
According to Onyango, political competition should never come at the expense of human life, adding that sustainable development depends on a secure environment where people can live, work and invest.
“I believe Kisumu Central can continue to lead by example. Together, we can protect the peace we have built, strengthen our unity, and create a constituency where every young person has an opportunity to succeed,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing calls from political leaders and residents for calm following the violence, as political activity begins to gather pace ahead of Kenya’s 2027 general election.
Onyango said he remained committed to promoting inclusive development, peaceful leadership and unity as central pillars of his vision for Kisumu Central.
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