National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has raised concern over increased criminal gangs and vigilantes associated with politicians in the country.
Linda Ochiel, NCIC Commissioner representing the youth said the criminal gangs were being revived to scare political opponents and some use the gangs as their own personal security.
“The NCIC has noted that politicians are reviving criminal gangs which they manipulate to advance their political stretch towards the upcoming elections,” said Ochiel.
She warned the youths against being used by such politicians and said the youths will be held responsible irrespective of the politician associated with it.
“Everyone will be held accountable and even those politicians facilitating the gangs irrespective of the position she or he holds,” said Ochiel.
The commissioner was speaking to the press at Kaimosi teachers Training College training in Hamisi Sub County during the promotion of national values and cohesion in the area.
The commissioner also cautioned social media users against circulating information deemed as hate speech to other users saying that they will be arrested and charged.
Ochiel said political radicalization had increased especially now that Kenyans are heading towards the general elections and advised the youth not to be used by selfish politicians out to exploit their worst instincts.
She added that they were using culture as one of the strategies to advance and promote cohesion in the country.
“We have adapted culture as one of our strategies to promote national values and identity,” said Ochiel.
She said politicians have used ethnicity for political mobilization and said the best way to demystify negative ethnicity is to appreciate the culture amongst the 42 tribes.