Elders from Kano and Nyakach have pledged to work together to promote peaceful campaigns ahead of Kenya’s 2027 General Election.
The elders, meeting at the Nyakach Cultural Centre in Katito, urged politicians and their supporters to reject violence and allow candidates to campaign freely.
The consultative meeting was led by lawyer Fred Odumo Nyinguro, who is seeking the Kisumu senatorial seat.
Nyakach Council of Elders chairman Ogongo Oyano said elders had a responsibility to safeguard peace and unity despite political differences.
“As elders, we are the custodians of peace and unity in our region, and we must ensure that our communities remain united before, during and after the elections,” Mr Oyano said.
He called on elders to treat all candidates equally and give them an opportunity to present their policies to voters.
“Every candidate has a constitutional right to contest and should be given an opportunity to sell their agenda to the electorate,” he said.
Oyano also highlighted the longstanding relationship between elders from Kano and Nyakach, saying their cooperation was important for peace and development in the region.
He said the elders had listened to Odumo’s views and were impressed by his ability to articulate issues affecting residents.
“We have listened to lawyer Odumo and we are impressed by the way he articulates issues. We have given him our counsel and wisdom as he begins his journey across Kisumu County,” Oyano said.
Odumo thanked the elders for their advice, describing the meeting as an important part of his campaign.
“I am thrilled to have met our elders and listened to their counsel. Their blessing gives me confidence as I walk across the county to seek votes and share my vision with the people,” he said.
He backed the elders’ call for all candidates to be given adequate time and space to campaign without discrimination.
Odumo also urged politicians to reject violence, warning that political confrontations could lead to deaths and destruction of property.
“Elders are giving direction to our communities, and we must listen to them. I urge my fellow politicians to shun violence because it only leads to death, division and suffering,” he said.
Odumo has been meeting various groups across Kisumu County as he seeks support for his senatorial bid, including young people, women, people with disabilities, boda boda riders, community health workers and elders.
The meeting ended with a call for politicians, community leaders and residents to make peace a priority ahead of the 2027 elections.
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