A parliamentary aspirant in the high-stakes Kikuyu constituency has opened his campaign with an appeal for peace, directly warning local youth against being paid to cause political violence.
George Gitau, an accountant who has declared his interest in contesting the seat, urged the public to embrace stability as the election cycle begins.
He emphasized that the country’s progress has been built through its people’s hard work and creativity, a development that peace must protect.
”We all need to speak about peace. Peaceful campaigns show respect and maturity. We should embrace it,” Gitau stated.
He decried that some politicians exploit youths’ innocence and joblessness, dishing out money to request them to disrupt and scatter opponents’ meetings as elections draw near.
”Our youths should be aware that some of the politicians who do not have an agenda for their constituencies normally ask them to invade and scatter other people’s meetings,” he warned.
Gitau contrasted disruptive politics with leaders of positive influence, noting that politicians with genuine intentions for the country leave behind a lasting legacy.
He cited the late Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader, Raila Odinga, as an example whose participation in the struggle for democracy secured his place in the history books.
”Odinga’s contributions to the 2010 Constitution and the space for democracy will be highlighted by writers and read by scholars for years to come,” he added, illustrating the impact of a focused politician.
Speaking at Kerwa area, Gitau confirmed he is vying for the seat on a Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) ticket.
He will battle for the parliamentary seat against the formidable incumbent, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa, who has held the post for three terms.
