In Kenya, youth crime continues to spark national debate, with families and communities grappling with how best to guide young people away from illegal activities.
Discussions often focus on rehabilitation, parental influence, and societal pressures, highlighting the delicate balance between accountability, support, and second chances for those at a critical age.
This debate was recently brought into focus when former political aide Wafula Buke shared his perspective on his own son’s sentencing, openly discussing the jail term without anger or resentment.
On Wednesday, Buke revealed that his 21-year-old son, Declan, was sentenced to four years in jail for preparation to commit a felony. In a statement shared publicly, Buke said the jail term was necessary for his son’s rehabilitation.
“My son Declan was jailed for four years yesterday. He had been charged with preparation to commit a felony. Considering how I have known him, he badly needed to go to jail,” Buke said.
He added that while he had hoped for a longer term of seven years to ensure full rehabilitation, the magistrate opted for a shorter sentence.
Buke’s message, unusual for its calm and reflective tone, attributed part of Declan’s struggles to broader family circumstances.
He noted that single parenthood had affected his son’s upbringing and referenced the absence of Declan’s father, describing him as “crazy” and pursuing other objectives.
“Friends wish my son quick rehabilitation. He is not entirely responsible for his predicament. Single parenthood messed him a bit. The other challenge was the ‘crazy’ missing father pursuing other objectives. At 21, there is hope for recovery from bad ways,” Buke added.
The statement has stirred strong reactions online, with many commenters expressing surprise at the father’s measured approach.
Some praised Buke for focusing on rehabilitation rather than shame or anger, while others debated the impact of family dynamics on youth crime.
Reactions;
Ndolo Wosonga: That's a good school just keep in touch to help him remain focussed. See you soon son!
Walela: I have this feeling Prisons in Kenya do not rehabilitate. I spent a few days at Industrial area Prison in 1996 and ended up learning about guns, crude weapons and forms of assault. Prisons serve one purpose--- to keep a few of those who are evil away from the test of rest of society. Good day.
Jerome Ogolla: Challenges of parenting. However, he will come from jail not rehabilitated but more hardened.
Peter Wafula: Hey Wafula Buke I understand you're coming from a tough place, but have you considered how 4 years in prison might affect your son's future? Instead of correcting him, it might push him further into a life of crime. 'The true measure of a society is how it treats its most vulnerable members' - maybe we should focus on rehabilitation, not just punishment 💔."
Jelagat: Jailing alone won't help him. Visit the institution, talk to the welfare officer and spiritual chaplain. Felony isn't a light act. Wishing him well.