PS Raymond Omollo: Violence Is Not Currency for Politics in Kenya

PS Raymond Omollo insists that planning Kenya’s future cannot be left to the whims of intimidation and violence.

In a meeting earlier today, the PS warned against turning violence into a currency for politics.

In his words, politicians must lead by persuasion, not coercion – a reminder that democracy only thrives where ideas and dialogue carry the day, not threats or force.

Omollo’s remarks land at a delicate moment.

Youth unemployment remains a pressing challenge, leaving many young Kenyans vulnerable to exploitation by opportunistic political actors or even criminal networks.

Yet, he was categorical that crime is not and can never be the alternative.

Instead, the government is widening pathways for opportunity, particularly through the Affordable Housing Programme and digital empowerment initiatives.

These, he argued, are not just projects on paper but practical solutions designed to absorb thousands of young people into meaningful, dignified work.

The Affordable Housing Programme

PS Omollo reminded the citizens that this is more than a construction drive.

It has become a powerful job creation engine, providing openings for skilled and unskilled labour, artisans, suppliers, and entrepreneurs across the country.

In parallel, digital skills programmes are equipping young people to compete in an economy that increasingly rewards innovation, coding, and online services.

For PS Omollo, the message is clear:

The youth must position themselves for these opportunities rather than be drawn into crime or become instruments of political intimidation.

This framing matters because political violence has long cast a shadow over Kenya’s democratic journey.

When leaders normalize coercion, institutions weaken and communities fracture.

Omollo’s speech sought to push back against that trend, calling on leaders to win support by ideas and persuasion rather than by fear.

It was also a reminder to citizens – especially young people – that there are alternatives, and that these alternatives are not abstract promises but tangible projects already reshaping neighbourhoods and job markets.

By highlighting housing and digital empowerment, the PS located the fight against violence within a broader vision of national transformation.

These are programmes that align with President Ruto’s three-year push for a more digitized, citizen-focused government.

They are evidence that the state is not merely condemning crime and political intimidation, but actively offering a different future.

Omollo’s words, then, should not be heard as just another government soundbite.

They are a call to redefine the culture of politics in Kenya:

To reject intimidation, to champion persuasion, and to match civic participation with economic opportunity.

For young Kenyans especially, the choice is stark – a path of fear and criminality that leads nowhere, or a path of innovation, work, and contribution to national growth.

Violence may make noise in the short term, but it never builds.

What builds nations are ideas, opportunity, and the courage to lead by persuasion.