Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development Teresia Mbaika Speaking during a Women Empowerment Programme at Enzai in Mukaa Ward, Kilome Constituency, on July 13, 2026. Photo by Komu Musango.
By Andrew Mbuva.
Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development Teresia Mbaika has accused the Opposition of fueling violence during the ongoing Olkarau by-election, urging political leaders to embrace peaceful campaigns instead of engaging in acts of intimidation and disorder.
Speaking during a Women Empowerment Programme at Enzai in Mukaa Ward, Kilome Constituency, on Monday, Mbaika dismissed claims that the government was behind the insecurity witnessed in the by-election, saying Opposition leaders were unfairly shifting blame to the Kenya Kwanza administration.
She maintained that government leaders were committed to conducting peaceful politics and would not be drawn into confrontational campaigns.
"We reject politics of goonism. Elections should be peaceful, with leaders competing on the strength of their ideas and policies. Whoever wins should be respected by all," Mbaika said.
The Principal Secretary urged political actors to stop inciting violence, saying leadership should be determined by the will of the people rather than by intimidation or displays of force.
She noted that the Ukambani region has traditionally been known for its peaceful coexistence, expressing concern over recent incidents of political violence, particularly along the Mombasa Road corridor.
"As government leaders, we do not want violence in politics. We are looking for leaders, not goons. Leadership is not about who has the biggest chest or who can intimidate others," she said.
Mbaika also rallied residents to support the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying the region should position itself to benefit from being part of the national government after spending many years in the political opposition.
She praised President William Ruto for his political leadership, describing him as a seasoned strategist capable of guiding the ruling coalition into the next electoral cycle.
The PS urged voters to elect leaders based on their development agenda rather than short-term inducements during campaigns.
"Do not vote because someone has given you a handout. Vote for leaders who will bring development because after elections you will have to live with that choice for the next five years," she said.
Mbaika said the government was focused on improving infrastructure, expanding access to water and creating better economic opportunities to improve the lives of ordinary Kenyans, especially the younger generation.
She said the administration was determined to ensure future generations inherit a better country with quality roads, reliable water supply and improved market access for farmers.
Addressing women at the empowerment forum, Mbaika encouraged them to take advantage of government development programmes and actively participate in agriculture whenever irrigation water and other support services are provided.
"Women are a powerful voting bloc and have a critical role in shaping the country's future. Let us support leaders who will transform our communities and also make use of the opportunities that government is creating," she said.
The women empowerment event brought together leaders allied to the Kenya Kwanza administration, who used the forum to mobilize support for the government's development agenda and call for peaceful political engagement ahead of future elections.