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Ex-CJ David Maraga has condemned the rising cases of hooliganism at public gatherings in Kisii and Nyamira counties, accusing politicians of exploiting unemployed youth to disrupt meetings and spread violence.
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He described the growing disorder at funerals and other public events as an “ugly phenomenon” that threatens peace, social cohesion and development in the Gusii region.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga has condemned the rising cases of hooliganism at public gatherings in Kisii and Nyamira counties, accusing politicians of exploiting unemployed youth to disrupt meetings and spread violence.
Speaking during the burial of Mama Jemimah Moraa in Nyamira County, Maraga described the growing disorder at funerals and other public events as an “ugly phenomenon” that threatens peace, social cohesion and development in the Gusii region.
He said the violence is largely perpetrated by unemployed young people who are allegedly being enticed by politicians with small cash payments to cause chaos.
“If this is not stopped immediately, it will lead to loss of lives and disrupt learning in schools due to fear and insecurity,” Maraga warned. “Our children are being turned into political weapons instead of being nurtured to become future leaders.”
The former Chief Justice cited the recent violence in Keumbu Town, Kisii County, where one youth from Gionseri Village in Nyamache Sub-county was killed after chaos erupted during a public meeting. He called on police to expedite investigations, arrest those responsible and ensure they are prosecuted.
Maraga also condemned an incident at Endereti Village in Bomachoge Borabu Constituency, where youths were allegedly mobilised to eject perceived political opponents from a funeral.
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“That act is against our African way of life,” he said. “When we lose a loved one, the deceased deserves respect and the family deserves a dignified send-off. Turning funerals into battlefields shames us as a community.”
West Mugirango MP Steve Mogaka and former Borabu MP Ben Momanyi echoed Maraga’s sentiments, saying politics should not be brought into solemn community occasions such as funerals.
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Maraga further appealed to parents, teachers, religious leaders and politicians to play a greater role in mentoring young people and shielding them from political manipulation.
He also challenged security agencies to act firmly and impartially against those involved in sponsoring or perpetrating violence, regardless of their political affiliation.
“The culture of impunity must end. Let us protect our funerals, protect our schools and protect the dignity of our people,” he said.
The burial attracted hundreds of mourners, clergy and political leaders from across the Gusii region who gathered to pay their last respects to the late Mama Jemimah Moraa.
By Enock Okong’o
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