Tinderet: Supporters of rival political camps in Tinderet Constituency have appealed for tolerance, restraint, and peaceful campaigns ahead of the next General Election, amid growing political activity linked to the anticipated succession battle in the constituency.
According to Kenya News Agency, the calls come as the area Member of Parliament, Julius Melly, openly declared interest in the Nandi County gubernatorial seat, a move that has sparked heightened political alignments among leaders and aspiring candidates seeking to succeed him. The notable contenders include Shadrack Maritim, Walter Kipkemei, Peter Lelei, and Edward Barng'etuny in a region that is predominantly inclined to the United Democratic Alliance party.
Residents, opinion leaders, and youth representatives drawn from different political camps said the constituency had historically remained peaceful during elections and urged supporters to avoid divisive politics, intimidation, and inflammatory statements that could trigger tension. Benjamin Keter, an elder in Songhor area, said the growing political excitement should instead be used to promote development agenda and issue-based politics.
Youth leader Sheila Tuwei noted that political intolerance had in the past discouraged some residents from openly expressing support for candidates of their choice. Another resident, Geoffrey Kirwa, said early campaigns had already heightened political temperatures in some trading centres, prompting the need for leaders to preach coexistence.
Political analysts within the region say the anticipated exit of Melly from the parliamentary race has attracted interest from several aspiring politicians, professionals, and businessmen seeking to position themselves ahead of the elections. The supporters further warned against the misuse of social media to spread propaganda, hate speech, and misinformation targeting opponents, saying such trends could easily fuel unnecessary hostility among the youth.
Women leaders from different wards also called for peaceful engagement during rallies and grassroots mobilization meetings, saying women and children often suffer most whenever political tensions escalate. Esther Chepkemoi, a community mobilizer in Tinderet ward, urged political aspirants to jointly champion peace messages during their campaigns.
At the same time, religious leaders in the constituency appealed to politicians to avoid ethnic and clan-based politics, warning that divisive rhetoric could undermine unity in the cosmopolitan constituency. The clerics said the region needed issue-driven campaigns focusing on roads, agriculture, youth employment, education, and healthcare rather than personal attacks.
Despite the rising political activities, residents expressed optimism that the constituency would remain peaceful if leaders and supporters uphold tolerance, mutual respect, and responsible political conduct throughout the campaigns.