As the election season heats up in Kenya, parents in Kibera's Kibera sub-county have been put on notice to keep their children away from political rallies and criminal gangs.
According to Humphrey Lando, chairperson of the Kibera Community Peace and Security Committee, vigilante groups are on high alert to ensure that only eligible voters attend political gatherings. Lando expressed concern that some politicians are using children to swell their crowds, taking advantage of their vulnerability to deceit.
He cited reports of school-going youths riding motorcycles with registration numbers, snatching phones and valuables from unsuspecting residents along Ngong Road. Lando warned that the security team will take lawful action against children involved in such activities.
Speaking to Ghetto Radio, Lando emphasized that the government and non-governmental organizations have done enough to ensure children are in school. He urged parents to understand that the burden of education is shared between the government and parents, with the government covering school fees and parents responsible for uniforms and food.
“We helped the government ensure 100 percent transition in Kibera, but now, there's a tendency for some children to join political groups or engage in criminal activities. We urge parents to advise their children on the repercussions of such actions,” Lando said.