Rising incidents of political violence and the growing use of hired goons to disrupt rallies are stoking fears that Kenya could slide into a dangerous cycle of instability. Interior PS Raymond Omollo has dismissed claims of state involvement in the disruptions, warning against what he described as attempts to misuse young people for political violence. Archbishop Dominic Kimengich of the Eldoret Catholic Diocese warns the growing role of political goons ahead of next year’s general elections is alarming. Lawyer Koki Muli warned that the violence will have a major impact in the next elections, coupled with mistrust of the electoral commission if not addressed in time. “Growing mistrust in the IEBC risks deterring vulnerable groups from voting during periods of violence,” she says.

Source: The Star March 01, 2026 16:53 UTC