Laikipia North MP Sarah Korere has launched a peace campaign targeting young people ahead of next year's general election.
The MP asked youth to reject attempts by politicians to incite violence and disrupt political meetings.
Speaking at Sirimon Secondary School during the commissioning of a modern laboratory, Korere appealed to the youth not to allow themselves to be manipulated with alcohol or money to cause chaos at political gatherings.
"I want to ask you as a mother, not just as your leader, please do not allow yourselves to be used by politicians. If someone buys you alcohol and sends you to disrupt another leader's meeting, do not accept," she said.
Her remarks come amid growing concern over incidents of political violence and goonism witnessed across the country. Political meetings have in recent months been disrupted by groups of youths allegedly hired to cause chaos, raising fears over the conduct of campaigns ahead of next year's elections.
The legislator said every political aspirant deserves an opportunity to market their agenda without intimidation. She said residents who are not interested in attending a rival's rally should simply stay away instead of causing disturbances.
Korere said she was encouraged that such incidents had not been witnessed in Laikipia North, but warned that the constituency must remain peaceful as the country heads into the electioneering period.
"If you do not want to listen to Sarah's agenda, stay at home. But if you choose to attend, listen peacefully, then go home and listen to the next leader. No one will force you to support them," she said.
She accused some politicians of exploiting vulnerable youth to advance personal political interests while shielding their own children from the same risks.
"Those who incite young people have children of their own, yet they never send them to drink alcohol and fight at political rallies. They use other people's children for their selfish interests," Korere said.
The MP urged voters to elect leaders based on their development record, leadership qualities and policies rather than political affiliations or ethnic considerations.
Daiga assistant county commissioner Mohammed Halo also called on residents to maintain peace during the campaign period, saying security remains a shared responsibility.
"As campaigns approach, we appeal to everyone to maintain peace. Security begins with each one of us. Love your neighbour, work together and that is how we will achieve development," Halo said.
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