The Government has warned politicians against using criminal gangs to intimidate opponents or disrupt public meetings, saying those involved will face the full force of the law.

Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo said violence and criminality must not be allowed to shape Kenya's political life.

He also urged young people to reject politicians who seek to recruit them for political violence or use them to disrupt public gatherings.

“If you do not support a particular leader, wait for the elections and exercise your democratic right. Violence, intimidation and criminal gangs have no place in our politics,” Dr Omollo said.

He spoke in Nyamira County during an interdenominational prayer service and a Harambee fundraiser in support of 331 church choirs.

Dr Omollo praised residents for maintaining peace and resisting organised criminal groups. He said Nyamira could show the rest of the country that political differences can be handled without violence.

“Leaders and citizens should be free to express different views and still return home peacefully,” he said.

The PS directed the County Commissioner, national government administrators and security agencies to work with local leaders and residents to protect peace and prevent political violence.

He said public meetings and other political engagements should be held without intimidation or disruption.

Dr Omollo also announced that the Government had operationalised additional administrative units in Nyamira County. The move, he said, was intended to bring government services closer to residents.

He encouraged qualified Kenyans of integrity to apply for advertised positions of chief and assistant chief, saying effective grassroots administration was important for security, public services and community development.

The PS also urged Kenyans to reject politicians who promote ethnic or religious divisions.

He said President William Ruto's administration was working to expand development in areas including roads, education, healthcare and employment across the country.

The event was attended by Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, presidential adviser Farouk Kibet, nominated Senator Esther Okenyuri, Bungoma Senator Wafula Wakoli and other national and county leaders.

Religious leaders, elders, elected representatives, church choirs and residents from Nyamira, Kisii and neighbouring areas also attended the gathering.

The warning comes as Kenya's political leaders continue to prepare for the next election cycle, with public gatherings and political mobilisation expected to increase. The Government's message was clear: political competition should be settled through democratic means, not intimidation or violence.