Bishop JJ Gitahi Issues Warns Youths Against Joining Gangs and Goons
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| Photos collage|Blessed Media 001/Archbishop JJ Gitahi |
During the interview, Bishop JJ Gitahi said that many young people are being misled by politicians and other powerful individuals into taking part in violent demonstrations, criminal gangs, and acts of political thuggery. According to him, some youths are accepting small amounts of money to engage in dangerous activities without thinking about the long-term consequences. He warned that while those who recruit them may remain protected, it is the young people who often end up arrested, injured, or even killed.
The bishop claimed that the country could experience a period of political and security tension between September and October. Although he did not provide evidence to support this prediction, he urged Kenyans to remain alert and avoid anything that could put their lives at risk. He encouraged citizens to prepare themselves through peaceful means, remain informed, and avoid being manipulated by people seeking to create chaos for political gain.
One of the strongest parts of his message was directed at the youth. Bishop JJ emphasized that every young person has a choice to make. He urged them to reject offers to become political goons, saying that temporary financial rewards are not worth the permanent damage that violence can bring. He noted that a criminal record, serious injuries, or loss of life can change a family's future forever. Instead of being used to cause destruction, he encouraged young people to focus on education, employment, business, and skills that can improve their lives.
The cleric also warned that security agencies, especially the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), are likely to intensify efforts against individuals involved in organized crime and political violence if insecurity continues to rise. According to his remarks, those who participate in illegal activities should not expect to escape the law simply because they were acting on instructions from influential people. He said that when investigations begin, it is usually the individuals caught on the ground who face the legal consequences.
To stress the seriousness of his warning, Bishop JJ referred to Haiti, a country that has experienced years of instability due to the growth of powerful criminal gangs. He suggested that Kenya should avoid allowing criminal groups to gain influence because such situations become extremely difficult to control once they grow stronger. His comparison served as a warning about the dangers of unchecked violence rather than a suggestion that Kenya is in the same situation as Haiti. He urged leaders and citizens to work together to ensure peace and stability before problems become more difficult to manage.
Beyond addressing the youth, Bishop JJ also spoke about the country's political leadership. He mentioned several prominent politicians, including Kalonzo Musyoka and Rigathi Gachagua, saying that no political leader would remain safe if insecurity and violence continue to spread across the country. His comments appeared to emphasize that political instability affects everyone regardless of their party or position. According to the bishop, leaders have a responsibility to promote peace and avoid statements or actions that could encourage division among Kenyans.
The bishop's message also highlighted the importance of national unity. He said that Kenya has faced many political challenges over the years but has always managed to move forward when citizens chose dialogue instead of violence. He encouraged political leaders to solve disagreements through constitutional and democratic processes rather than allowing supporters to engage in confrontations on the streets. He argued that peaceful discussions are more productive than destruction of property or attacks on innocent people.
He further appealed to parents, teachers, religious leaders, and community elders to guide young people during this period. According to him, many youths become vulnerable because of unemployment, poverty, and frustration. These challenges can make them easy targets for individuals looking to recruit them into criminal or political activities. He encouraged families and communities to provide mentorship, support, and opportunities that give young people hope for a better future.
Bishop JJ Gitahi also reminded listeners that life is precious and should never be sacrificed for political interests. He warned that violence often leaves lasting pain for families who lose loved ones or whose children are imprisoned because of poor decisions. He urged young people to think carefully before accepting any assignment that involves intimidation, destruction of property, or attacking fellow citizens. In his view, no amount of money can replace a lost life or restore years spent dealing with legal problems.
As he concluded his address, the bishop called upon all Kenyans to remain vigilant, pray for the country, and protect peace in their communities. He encouraged citizens to respect the law and avoid being drawn into conflicts that could lead to unnecessary bloodshed. While expressing concern about the coming months, he emphasized that individuals still have the power to make wise choices that protect themselves and those around them.
His remarks have already generated discussion among listeners, with many agreeing that the youth should avoid political violence, while others continue to debate his predictions about the country's future. Regardless of differing opinions, his message has brought renewed attention to the growing concern over the recruitment of young people into criminal and politically motivated activities.
Ultimately, Bishop JJ Gitahi's address was a call for responsibility, unity, and peaceful coexistence. He urged young people to reject violence, warned against becoming tools in political battles, and encouraged leaders to place the interests of the nation above personal ambitions. As Kenya continues to navigate its political landscape, his message serves as a reminder that lasting peace depends on the choices made by both leaders and ordinary citizens.
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