Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has linked the rising insecurity in Kisumu to the growing culture of political handouts, arguing that easy money given to young people by politicians is fueling crime in the lakeside city.

Speaking during the burial of Mzee Joshua Oluoch Olang and his son, Samson Odhiambo Oluoch, in Nyahera, Kisumu West Constituency, on Saturday, July 11, 2026, Ruth said the killing of Samson reflected the worsening security situation that requires urgent action from both political and security leaders.

Political handouts blamed

Ruth said Samson’s death was avoidable, describing him as a young man who was attacked, robbed and killed despite having a promising future.

She faulted politicians for creating a culture where young people depend on cash handouts instead of sustainable opportunities.

“Samson did not have to die. He was a healthy young man who was brutally attacked, robbed then murdered. It pains me to see lives lost like this. It is the political class that is fueling insecurity in Kisumu,” she said.

According to her, politicians who routinely distribute money to youth during political activities contribute to crime when the cash flow eventually stops.

“When someone is used to easy cash, what do they do when the flow of easy money stops? They go into the streets to mug people,” she added.

Calls for inclusive security meeting

Ruth urged Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o to convene another security meeting that brings together all elected leaders, security agencies and administrators to find lasting solutions to insecurity.

She noted that although an earlier meeting was held, elected leaders were left out, limiting efforts to tackle the challenge collectively.

“The issue of insecurity is something I will fight to the very end, even if it means fighting it alone,” she stated.

Political tensions over campaign conduct

Her remarks come as political leaders continue trading accusations over campaign conduct ahead of the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election.

Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi recently backed former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s claims that voter bribery is influencing the contest, accusing rival political actors of using money to sway voters.

Linturi called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to investigate claims of vote buying and ensure the mini-poll is conducted in a free, fair and peaceful manner.

The latest debate reflects growing concern over the role of money in politics, with leaders warning that the culture of handouts risks undermining democratic processes while creating long-term social and security challenges.