Elders in Homa Bay County have warned of impending curses against politicians responsible for causing chaos in the region.
Operating under the umbrella of Kwabwai Peace for Development, the elders have threatened to invoke traditional curses as a tool to punish defiant politicians.
Political violence has become alarmingly prevalent in the county. Most incidents occur during funerals and fundraising events.
For instance, in Kasipul Constituency, violence erupted during a burial ceremony in East Kamagak Ward on 27 January, leaving one man seriously injured and several vehicles destroyed.
On February 8, chaos broke out during a fundraiser at Sasi Primary School in Kanyadoto Ward, Ndhiwa. Several youths were stabbed, while others were assaulted with clubs.
Among the leaders present at the fundraiser were National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, and Interior PS Raymond Omollo, all of whom condemned the violence.
The rising cases of political violence have left residents of Ndhiwa deeply concerned.
Elders, led by Kwabwai Peace for Development Chairman Dickson Ogindo, have vowed to place curses on politicians who perpetrate violence.
Speaking at a meeting in Wachara Village, Kwabwai Ward, Ogindo warned politicians against fueling chaos.
"Anybody who abets political violence must stop immediately. Anyone who defies this warning should not blame us because they will be cursed," Ogindo said.
The elder explained that a curse would bring misfortunes upon the victim.
"A curse will have a profound impact. Politicians who currently hold office will lose their positions in the next election. Those aspiring for political seats will fail in their bid," Ogindo warned.
The elder also urged the youth to refrain from being manipulated by politicians to incite violence. He cautioned that the handouts given to them would not only land them in trouble but also fail to improve their lives.
"Politicians give young people money to cause violence. This is wrong. I want the youth to realise that such handouts cannot change their lives," Ogindo said.
Reports indicate that politicians in the area hire goons to instigate violence, believing it demonstrates their political strength.
Odongo, another elder, urged security agencies to arrest politicians who fund acts of violence.
"These political leaders should be arrested. The goons they use should not be spared either. We do not want violence in Ndhiwa," Odongo asserted.
