Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju has condemned recent attacks linked to political violence, saying such incidents threaten democracy, discourage investment and undermine social cohesion.

Tuju made the remarks on Tuesday, July 15, 2026, during a walk through Kisumu City, where he interacted with residents before boarding a public service matatu to Ndori in Siaya County.

The former Rarieda MP spent several hours engaging boda boda riders, jua kali artisans, traders, hawkers, pedestrians and unemployed youth, saying he wanted to understand their concerns directly.

“I am here walking and talking to our people. They are okay. They are peaceful, just busy trying to eke out a living. That’s the spirit,” Tuju told journalists.

He said Kisumu should be recognised as a centre for business and investment rather than being associated with unrest.

“I have seen a peaceful, hardworking city. Kisumu is a hub of business and investment. That is how it should be marketed, not otherwise,” he said.

Meeting residents

As Tuju walked through the Jua Kali area, Aga Khan, Kisumu Boys Road and towards the Bondo-Siaya bus stage, he stopped to greet residents who gathered along the route.

He later boarded a public matatu to Ndori, leaving behind his official convoy.

During his interactions, Tuju said unemployment emerged as the biggest concern among young people.

“The biggest challenge our young people are facing is unemployment. Government must address it urgently because jobs remain the surest path to stability and prosperity,” he said.

He added that creating employment opportunities requires increased investment and a business environment that supports economic growth.

Tuju said addressing youth unemployment would help improve livelihoods and reduce economic challenges facing many families.

He said Kisumu should be recognised as a centre for business and investment rather than being associated with unrest.

“I have seen a peaceful, hardworking city. Kisumu is a hub of business and investment. That is how it should be marketed, not otherwise,” he said.

Meeting residents

As Tuju walked through the Jua Kali area, Aga Khan, Kisumu Boys Road and towards the Bondo-Siaya bus stage, he stopped to greet residents who gathered along the route.

He later boarded a public matatu to Ndori, leaving behind his official convoy.

During his interactions, Tuju said unemployment emerged as the biggest concern among young people.

“The biggest challenge our young people are facing is unemployment. Government must address it urgently because jobs remain the surest path to stability and prosperity,” he said.

He added that creating employment opportunities requires increased investment and a business environment that supports economic growth.

Tuju said addressing youth unemployment would help improve livelihoods and reduce economic challenges facing many families.

Condemns political violence

Tuju also addressed recent political tensions in Kisumu following confrontations reported at St Stephen’s Cathedral ACK church.

He said violence during political activities undermines democratic values.

“Those kinds of attacks represent a democratic recession. They undermine the moral values and socio-economic fabric of society,” he said.

He called for what he described as “democratic civilisation,” urging security agencies to safeguard peace and create an environment that supports investment.

“A secure environment is essential if businesses are to grow, investments are to flow and young people are to find employment,” he said.

Tuju said maintaining law and order is critical to protecting livelihoods and encouraging economic activity.

Political future

Although Tuju did not declare his political plans, his public appearance comes amid continued speculation over his future ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The former Cabinet Secretary has previously said he is considering contesting either the Siaya governorship or returning to Parliament as Rarieda MP.

He has maintained that consultations are ongoing before making a final decision.

Tuesday’s tour saw him engage residents on issues affecting their daily lives, including employment, investment and political stability.

His visit also highlighted his call for peaceful political engagement, saying democratic competition should take place in an environment free from violence and intimidation.

Tuju said protecting peace and strengthening democratic institutions remain essential for economic growth and public confidence as the country prepares for future elections.