The government is calling on parents, faith leaders and elders to actively steer youth towards peaceful civic participation and away from violent protest.

This comes at a time of heightened tension across the country, as young people continue to mobilise against perceived failures in governance and economic inequality.

Interior and National Administration Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has called for unity and collaboration, urging leaders to guide the youth and warning that Kenya’s democratic foundations are under threat from growing unrest.

“Let us guide our youth to channel their energy and vision constructively. This country belongs to all of us, and it is our collective duty to protect it from slipping into chaos,” he said.

Speaking at the inauguration of Mutarakwa and Kapletundo Divisions in Bomet County, Omollo decried the destruction of property and attacks on law enforcement officers witnessed during the recent protests.

He emphasised that while young people have the right to demand accountability, their methods must remain within the law.

“Please let’s counsel our children when they go astray. Kenya is a country of laws, and those who feel aggrieved have a right to vent within the bounds of our laws,” he urged.

The PS condemned the violence that engulfed several towns in June and resurfaced last week, including the burning of police stations, attacks on officers, and looting of private businesses, terming the actions a threat to the country’s hard-won democratic progress.

“We are breeding a pervasive culture of impunity when we allow such actions to go unchallenged. If you have a problem with the current leaders, the elections are barely two years away. You will have an opportunity to seek wananchi’s mandate to implement your vision and agenda for our country,” he stated.

The PS warned that criminal elements are hijacking genuine calls for justice, saying a small group of agitators is manipulating youth-led movements.

“Do not allow selfish politicians and individuals to use you as pawns. They will not be there when the law catches up with you. ,” he cautioned.

Omollo appealed to political leaders to stop exploiting youth vulnerabilities and weaponising discontent for political gain. He noted that democracy is not only about elections but also about strengthening civic engagement, public accountability, and trust in institutions.

“Democracy cannot be reduced to periodic elections alone,” he explained. “It demands continuous nurturing through strong institutions, civic education, and genuine political accountability. We cannot achieve this through violent activism or without supporting our leaders and working together to find solutions to our problems.”

He proposed a review of Article 37 of the Constitution, which protects the right to peaceful assembly, saying reforms could help ensure that protests are not infiltrated by criminal actors.

His remarks underscore growing concern that what began as a youthful demand for more inclusive governance is being distorted into organised lawlessness.

“Kenya is not yet immune from anarchy. We must act decisively to protect our democratic gains and prevent further slide into lawlessness,” he warned.

The PS also announced the gazetment of 1,105 new administrative units in the 2024/25 financial year as part of efforts to decentralise government services and improve responsiveness at the grassroots.

These include 24 new sub-Counties, 88 divisions, 318 locations and 675 new sub-locations

Among the first beneficiaries are Mutarakwa Division in Bomet Central and Kapletundo Division in Sotik, both officially launched during the event.

“We have developed a Cabinet memorandum and policy framework with clear criteria for creating and managing administrative units. Our goal is to ensure each unit has at least two lower-level divisions to improve service delivery,” Omollo stated.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening its presence at the grassroots and urged residents to take ownership of the new facilities and leadership structures.

“Government services must be brought closer to the people. That is how we create trust, improve accountability, and reduce the disconnect that often fuels discontent,” he said.

Additional reporting by Mike Kihaki