A video circulating across social media platforms has drawn intense public scrutiny toward Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament, Peter Kaluma.
In the recording, the lawmaker is seen addressing a gathering of local youths and instructing them to confront or physically harm individuals chanting “one-term” against President William Ruto. Moving beyond aggressive political support for the president’s potential second term, the MP went further by publicly sharing specific details regarding the hotels and residential locations where members of the opposition group, Linda Mwananchi, were planning to stay during their visit to Homa Bay County.
This conduct represents a serious departure from acceptable political discourse in a democratic society. Elected officials are meant to serve as guardians of the rule of law and facilitators of healthy public debate. In a constitutional democracy, citizens hold the fundamental right to express diverse opinions, including criticizing sitting leaders or advocating for a single presidential term.
No Member of Parliament possesses the moral or legal authority to turn political disagreement into a pretext for physical assault or intimidation.
When a lawmaker encourages young people to track down and target political opponents, it actively undermines the foundational principles of peaceful co-existence.
The context surrounding these remarks makes the situation particularly fragile. Following the death of veteran political leader Raila Odinga, the political landscape in Nyanza has entered a period of transition and reflection.
During such times, the public looks to elected leaders for calm, vision, and stability. Instead of fostering unity or reassuring constituents, MP Kaluma’s actions risk inciting unnecessary local conflict.
While he claims his stance is aimed at defending the broad-based government and demonstrating loyalty to President Ruto, true leadership requires persuading voters through policy debate and visible results, rather than threatening those who hold alternative political views.
What makes this escalation especially concerning is Peter Kaluma’s background and responsibilities as a senior politician. As a lawmaker who sits on the Parliamentary Committee on Administration and Internal Security, he understands the legal system and the vital necessity of preserving law and order.
History across Kenya demonstrates the severe consequences that follow when political figures mobilize youths to settle political scores.
The inevitable results are broken community ties, unnecessary loss of life, and a complete breakdown of public trust in democratic institutions.
The citizens of Homa Bay, like all Kenyans, deserve leadership rooted in accountability, peace, and respect for basic human rights. A politician who seeks to earn support for a government should do so by presenting clear achievements, economic solutions, and reasoned arguments.
Relying on intimidation to quiet dissent signals a lack of confidence in one’s own political standing. For Homa Bay to thrive, its representatives must focus on protecting all residents regardless of their political affiliations, ensuring that every citizen can express their opinion without fear of violence.
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