The business community in Embu County has called on politicians to take the lead in promoting peaceful campaigns and political tolerance, warning that traders often bear the greatest losses whenever political chaos erupts.

Speaking on Thursday during a stakeholders’ meeting that brought together business representatives in Embu Town, the traders said violence, intolerance and political confrontation should have no place in the county as political activities intensify.

Led by Embu Business Owners Association Chairman Charles Mugambi, the traders said they were ready to work closely with politicians and their supporters planning to hold rallies in Embu Town to ensure political activities do not interfere with businesses and livelihoods.

Mugambi said the business community depends on a peaceful environment to operate and urged political leaders to ensure their supporters conduct themselves responsibly during rallies and other political engagements.

He called on leaders to promote peaceful interactions and respect the rights of other members of the community, noting that businesses require stability to operate effectively.

His sentiments were echoed by Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Embu Chapter Chairperson Emily Wawira, who condemned the use of young people to cause chaos during political rallies.

Wawira said such actions not only threaten lives but also disrupt businesses, destroy property and undermine the livelihoods of traders.

She called for political tolerance and urged politicians and their supporters to embrace dialogue and respect divergent political views.

The KNCCI official said traders in Embu had previously suffered significant losses whenever political tensions degenerated into violence and destruction of property.

She urged political leaders and their supporters to avoid confrontations that could disrupt economic activities, saying the business community could not afford a repeat of incidents that have adversely affected businesses.

The traders said they would continue engaging political leaders, security agencies, young people and other stakeholders to promote peaceful campaigns, combat drug abuse and safeguard Embu’s business environment.

They also raised concern over the proliferation of drug and substance abuse, saying the menace contributes to violence, disorder and the exploitation of young people during political activities.

The traders called for concerted efforts by the government, community leaders, businesses and families to address drug and substance abuse and protect young people from being drawn into criminal and violent activities.

by Samuel Waititu