Former State House Chief of Staff Nzioka Waita addressing the Media after attending a church service at Kayangii AIC in Kangundo, Machakos County on March 1, 2026. Photo Courtesy 
By Andrew Mbuva.
Former State House Chief of Staff Nzioka Waita has raised concern over the growing insecurity in Kenya’s political environment, warning that rising violence witnessed during recent by-elections could signal a troubling path as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.
Speaking yesterday after attending a church service at Kayangii AIC in Kangundo, Machakos County, Waita — who is eyeing the Machakos gubernatorial seat in 2027 — called on the government and its agencies to uphold peace and protect democratic space.
Addressing congregants, Waita said his biggest fear as an aspiring leader is the deteriorating state of political security. He pointed to chaos and violence reported in recent by-elections, saying such scenes undermine democracy and discourage meaningful participation.
“My appeal to the government and all its agencies, including the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission and the National Police Service, is to ensure peace prevails,” he said. “All of us are seeking an opportunity to serve citizens. There is no need for violence or beating wananchi. The role of security agencies is to preserve peace and ensure everyone operates within the law.”
He emphasized that while criminal elements who infiltrate political gatherings armed with weapons must be arrested and prosecuted, security operations should not infringe on the rights of law-abiding citizens. According to Waita, allowing political violence to persist risks creating a dangerous precedent where “might makes right.”
“If we continue down this path, we risk becoming a country where leadership is about intimidation and harm. That would open the door for dangerous individuals who believe in a monopoly of violence to enter politics. That is not the Kenya we want,” he warned.
Waita further condemned leaders who incite citizens along tribal or religious lines, insisting that politics should revolve around ideas and development agendas rather than fear and division.
“Sell your policies. If you have plans to develop your county, constituency, or ward, present them to the people. Do not sell fear. Do not sell violence. Sell ideas,” he said.
Call for Youth Participation
The former Chief of Staff also made a passionate appeal to young people to actively participate in the democratic process by registering as voters.
He urged those without national identification cards to obtain them and proceed to their nearest IEBC sub-county offices to register. He revealed that beginning this month, the electoral commission will conduct mass voter registration drives in markets and sub-locations to boost youth enrollment.
“Those who think they will change the government by staying at home — nothing will happen. Go and register. Keep your vote ready and wait for election day,” he advised.
At the same time, Waita decried the trend of young people being allegedly used to cause chaos at political rallies, claiming that some are lured with alcohol and drugs to disrupt meetings.
“I urge the youth: choose peace. Do not allow yourselves to be dragged into reckless politics. Open your eyes,” he said.
He challenged voters to critically assess leaders seeking re-election, arguing that accountability should be the guiding principle at the ballot.
“If a leader has been in office for five years and you have never seen them, you do not hear them speaking in Parliament, and you do not see their work on the ground, then there is only one solution — let them go home,” Waita stated.
As the 2027 race gradually takes shape, his remarks signal an early push centered on peace, youth empowerment, and issue-based politics in Machakos County.
