By Samuel Ouma
Civil society organizations are sounding the alarm over a growing wave of political violence and intolerance sweeping across Kenya, as the country edges closer to the 2027 general election.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), alongside other civic bodies, has decried the activation of political goon squads and the increasing weaponization of public gatherings to stifle dissent.
Recent events point to a disturbing trend. On March 20 in Limuru, Central Kenya, a hired goons disrupted a peaceful traders’ meeting organized to protest excessive county levies imposed by the Kiambu County Government.
Earlier in March, armed gangs attacked and robbed Kenyans during President William Ruto’s rallies in Nairobi. Similar chaos has been reported during events involving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, as well as in funerals and other public forums across the country.
“Activation of political goons to disrupt has taken root, and there has been near-zero accountability from the government,” reads a scathing statement issued by KHRC and other organizations.
“The targets have mostly been anti-government critics, which points to a coordinated effort to intimidate and silence opposition voices.”
The civic groups are particularly concerned by the emergence of outlawed gangs being used as political tools. These gangs, often mobilized by powerful individuals, are tasked with violently breaking up protests, town hall meetings, and political gatherings that challenge the status quo.
“We are seeing a worrying trend of political intolerance and the use of criminal gangs to suppress legitimate dissent. This undermines democratic values and the constitutional rights of Kenyans to assemble, express, and associate freely,” added the organization.
The use of non-lethal weapons by security forces during protests — such as tear gas, batons, and water cannons — has also come under scrutiny. Human rights defenders have questioned the lack of clear regulations on how these weapons are procured or used.
“There is no law in Kenya regulating the use of non-lethal weapons. It remains unclear what guidelines, if any, the police follow — or whether these weapons meet international safety standards,” the statement continues.
Civil Society Demands Action
In their strongly worded declaration, the coalition of civil groups has outlined four key demands to curb the growing political violence.
One of the demands is the disbandment and prosecution of all outlawed gangs and political goon squads involved in disrupting public events, protests, and political forums.
Next is government holding political leaders and their allies accountable for inciting, financing, or enabling violence and political thuggery. Also, guarantee police independence and neutrality in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
Finally, safeguarding civic and political space, ensuring that all Kenyans can freely express themselves, assemble, and organize without fear of violence or repression.
