Concerns as Kisii Governor Simba Arati appears to defend 'goons'

Addressing a public gathering, Governor Arati confronted critics directly, dismissing allegations against youth normally hired to disrupt meetings, fight rivals and cause political mayhem. 

"I want to put the record straight," Arati stated. "That these are not goons, these are people who are looking for a living. Even if they are goons, and they're looking for a living, let it be."

The governor urged rival political leaders to display empathy towards struggling citizens, insisting that harsh economic realities force many into unsavoury street activities rather than comfortable office jobs.

"I want to just ask our leaders, especially those ones who are looking for leadership in different levels, respect even these poor people," Arati urged. "Simply because you are able to put a meal on your table, don't think everyone has the capacity to provide for their family."

He further challenged his opponents: "Therefore, the question of calling the people who are looking for a living just only to clean streets, they could have been sitting in other offices. It's because they don't have anything, that's why they are doing what they're doing at the moment."

Calling for a shift in perspective, Arati pushed back against critics, turning the "goon" label back onto his political rivals. 

"So, my brothers, clean your head, clean your brain, and perceive other people as human beings... It's only poverty that has pushed them to this level... Therefore, for one to stand and start lecturing us, 'Oh, these are goons,' that gentleman, ambaye anaongea yeye, he is the goon number one," he stated. 

He also called upon Kenyans to respect the street youth, defending their right to earn from the county coffers. 

"There must be respect for every person who is getting 1 bob, 2 bob, for a meal to be put on the table," he declared, accusing past leaders of failing to help local youths while attempting to access county funds. 

"Tafadhali, tuwache hawa watu pia watengeneze pesa kidogo ya county... I will not give you the money which is meant for the public."

The governor's public justification of street provocateurs has drawn sharp criticism, with many expressing concern over the normalization of lawlessness under the guise of economic hardship.