Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo has urged Kenyans to embrace responsible citizenship and respect for the rule of law, warning that violence, destruction of property and lawlessness during public demonstrations undermine national development and erode years of collective progress.
Speaking during the Prize Giving Day at Chinga Boys Senior School in Nyeri County, Omollo urged Kenyans to exercise their constitutional rights peacefully and responsibly, warning that violence, destruction of property and lawlessness undermine national development and erode the gains made through years of collective sacrifice and investment.
The Principal Secretary said responsible citizenship and respect for the rule of law remain critical to safeguarding Kenya’s democracy, stability and economic progress, noting that the country’s future depends not only on government policies and investments, but also on the willingness of citizens to contribute positively to society and exercise their freedoms responsibly.
Omollo observed that responsible citizenship begins with respect for oneself, respect for others and respect for the institutions that uphold democracy, justice and national cohesion. He urged Kenyans to uphold constitutional values while exercising their democratic freedoms, emphasising that rights must always be accompanied by responsibility.
“The Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to express themselves, to demonstrate, to picket and to petition public authorities. However, those rights must be exercised peacefully, lawfully and in a manner that respects the rights and safety of others,” he said.
The Principal Secretary condemned acts of violence, destruction of property, looting and attacks on innocent citizens during demonstrations, noting that criminal behaviour should never be disguised as the exercise of constitutional rights.
“There is a clear distinction between peaceful demonstrations and criminal acts. Burning businesses, looting property, attacking fellow citizens and destroying public infrastructure does not advance any cause. It only undermines the livelihoods of hardworking Kenyans and weakens the foundations upon which our nation is built,” he said.
Omollo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting constitutional freedoms while maintaining law and order, adding that security agencies will continue facilitating lawful civic engagement while taking firm action against criminal activities.
He called on political leaders, parents, teachers, religious leaders and communities to work together in nurturing a culture of responsibility, respect and peaceful coexistence.
“As we build our country, let us choose dialogue over destruction, responsibility over recklessness and unity over division. The values we demonstrate today will shape the character of the next generation and determine the future of our nation,” he said.
The Principal Secretary made the remarks as he reiterated the Government’s commitment to investing in education as a key pillar of national development and social transformation.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo during the Prize Giving Day at Chinga Boys Senior School in Nyeri County
He noted that education continues to receive the largest allocation of the national budget, with more than Sh740 billion allocated in the current financial year, up from approximately Sh500 billion when the Kenya Kwanza Administration assumed office.
He said the investments reflect the Government’s recognition that education remains the most effective pathway to opportunity, social mobility and national prosperity.
“Education is the greatest equaliser. It is through education that we equip our young people with the knowledge, skills and values they need to build a better future for themselves and for the country,” he said.
The Principal Secretary noted that beyond teacher recruitment, the Government has continued to invest heavily in school infrastructure to support the transition to Senior School under the Competency-Based Education framework.
He observed that learners have different strengths, talents and aspirations, and the education system must provide pathways that allow each learner to realise their full potential.
He also highlighted the role played by bursaries under the National Government Constituencies Development Fund and other support programmes in ensuring that children from disadvantaged backgrounds are not denied access to education because of financial constraints.
Addressing students, Omollo challenged them to embrace discipline, integrity and respect, noting that success in life is determined not only by academic achievement but also by character and personal responsibility.
“Knowledge alone is not enough. Character matters. Integrity matters. Discipline matters. Respect matters. The future belongs not only to those who are educated but also to those who are responsible,” he said.
He urged learners to reject drugs, alcohol, substance abuse, bullying and other harmful behaviours that undermine their future and the well-being of their peers.
The Principal Secretary also emphasised the importance of school safety, describing schools as critical spaces where future citizens are nurtured, prepared for leadership and equipped to contribute positively to society.
He called on parents, teachers, school administrators and communities to work together to ensure that learning institutions remain safe, secure and conducive environments for learning.
“Our schools must remain
safe spaces. No parent should have to worry about the safety of their child
while they are in school. As we invest in infrastructure and learning
resources, we must also invest in mentorship, guidance and positive engagement
with our children,” he said.
Omollo observed that recent incidents in some learning institutions had highlighted the need for greater collaboration among all stakeholders to strengthen school safety and support the holistic development of learners.
He commended Chinga Boys Senior School for its contribution to academic excellence, leadership development and character formation, describing the institution as a model of what can be achieved through strong partnerships between parents, teachers, students, alumni and the wider community.
The Principal Secretary congratulated students who received awards during the ceremony and encouraged all learners to remain focused on their education, reminding them that success is built through discipline, perseverance and commitment.
He also commended the Board of Management, teachers, parents and alumni for their dedication to nurturing responsible citizens and future leaders.
Omollo expressed confidence that Chinga Boys Senior School would continue producing young men who will serve the nation with distinction, integrity and a deep sense of responsibility.
“The nation we build
tomorrow depends on the character, discipline and sense of responsibility we
nurture today. That is why education, school safety and responsible citizenship
must remain a shared responsibility for all Kenyans,” he said.
Present was Principal Secretary for Energy Alex Wachira, among other local leaders.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo during the Prize Giving Day at Chinga Boys Senior School in Nyeri County
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo during the Prize Giving Day at Chinga Boys Senior School in Nyeri County
