Lobby warns against hate, illegal gangs ahead of 2017 polls

Kiambu County Peace Forum has issued a stern warning to politicians in the region against hate speech and forming illegal gangs ahead of the 2017 General Election.

Addressing the media in Thika, the officials drawn from the 12 sub-counties of Kiambu County intimated that political temperatures and tension were building in the county over what they termed as continued hatred amongst top politicians in the county.

Led by their chair Pastor Samuel Njenga, the officials further recommended that those found to be inciting wananchi against violence be barred from contesting for any political seat.

They further faulted the Judiciary for delay in determining hate speech cases and instead called for speedy court processes saying that this would teach many a lesson.

While pledging to monitor the politicians closely, the officials also said they are investigating recent claims by Interior Security CS Joseph Nkaissery that some leaders in the county were forming militia gangs a head of the 2017 polls.

The officials are now calling for a meeting with all Kiambu County politicians to chart the way forward, saying the county where President Uhuru Kenyatta comes from should lead by example by conducting peaceful political activities.

By Francis Kilango