The National Peace and Mediation Team (NPMT) has raised concern over a rise in politically sponsored violence across the country, warning that the increasing use of hired gangs threatens Kenya's democratic process as preparations for the 2027 General Election gather pace.
The team said recent attacks targeting members of the public, places of worship and peaceful gatherings reflect a worrying trend that could undermine the country's electoral environment if urgent action is not taken.
It stressed that violence and intimidation should never be used to influence political competition and urged all stakeholders to safeguard Kenya's democratic space.
The statement follows a week marked by several security incidents involving groups described as goons. In Nairobi, gangs disrupted public activities and attacked people during demonstrations, while similar incidents involving organised groups were reported in other parts of the country.
Religious leaders have also voiced concern after places of worship were targeted in violent attacks, calling for investigations and demanding that those responsible be brought to justice.
The peace team said such incidents undermine the constitutional rights and freedoms guaranteed to Kenyans while eroding public confidence in the country's democratic institutions. It warned that if the trend continues, it could create fear among citizens and discourage participation in future electoral processes.
The NPMT urged political leaders to refrain from sponsoring or encouraging violence for political gain and instead promote peaceful engagement with their supporters. It also called on security agencies to investigate all cases impartially and ensure those responsible are prosecuted regardless of their political affiliations.
The team further encouraged citizens to reject attempts to divide communities through violence and intimidation and to embrace peaceful means of resolving political differences.
According to the NPMT, dialogue, mediation and respect for the rule of law remain the most effective ways of addressing political disputes as the country moves closer to the next General Election.
"The NPMT reaffirms that peace is not optional; it is the foundation on which credible, free, and fair elections are built. We call on all political leaders, security agencies, and citizens to reject the use of violence and intimidation as tools of political competition, and to embrace dialogue, mediation, and the rule of law as we journey toward 2027," the team said.
The concerns raised by the NPMT add to growing calls from religious organisations, civil society groups and other leaders who have condemned the recent rise in politically linked violence. Several leaders have warned that the use of hired gangs during political activities threatens public safety and could undermine confidence in Kenya's democratic institutions if left unchecked.
With just over a year before campaigns for the next General Election are expected to gather momentum, the peace team said there is still time for leaders and institutions to rebuild public trust by promoting peaceful political engagement and ensuring the law is applied equally to all.
It maintained that preserving peace before, during and after the elections will be critical to safeguarding Kenya's democracy and ensuring citizens can exercise their constitutional rights without fear.
Comments
Sign in with Google to comment, reply, and like comments.
Continue with Google