Some of the children spotted in a campaign. [Photo/Mongare]The Department of Children Services in Nyamira County has sounded an alarm over use of children in election campaigns by leading political parties in the county.
According to the County Coordinator of Children Services (CCCS), Irene Mogere they have already written a letter to the local Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) office and stressed that use of children in campaigns was a serious breach of their rights.
She added that her office had established that many children had absconded learning due to the euphoria and monetary gains created by the campaigns.
“These children are also being exposed to many risks as they are seen hanging precariously on vehicles being used in the campaigns,” she said.
According to the CCCS, the children participating in election campaigns were beneficiaries of monetary inducement which was against the electoral laws.
In the letter also copied to local County Commissioner, area Police Commander and the Media among others she appealed for immediate action by the IEBC in order to arrest the situation.
“They are also donned in uniforms of political parties that include jerseys, caps, and T-shirts. The conduct of politicians and candidates involved in this malpractice is of great concern because it infringes on the rights and development of the youngsters,” the CCCS said.
She was speaking while addressing the media at her office on Thursday afternoon.