Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has strongly condemned the growing trend of politicians hiring goons armed with crude weapons to cheer them on during political rallies. Speaking after chaotic scenes witnessed in Nairobi, Murkomen said the government will take firm action against leaders who use violence and intimidation as part of their political mobilisation strategy.
Murkomen criticized the display of youths brandishing machetes, rungus, and other crude weapons while escorting certain politicians, saying such behavior threatens public safety and undermines democratic expression. He noted that political competition should be peaceful, issue-driven, and free from coercion or fear.
According to the CS, security agencies have already been directed to investigate the groups involved in the Nairobi incident and identify the politicians who may have sponsored or facilitated the mobilisation of violent gangs. He warned that the government will not tolerate any attempts to destabilize political events or intimidate the public ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
Murkomen emphasized that Kenya has made significant progress in improving political tolerance and safeguarding the freedom of assembly, and such gains must not be eroded by leaders seeking cheap popularity through hired crowds. He urged political actors to conduct their campaigns responsibly and to focus on policies, development plans, and solutions to the country’s pressing challenges.
Leaders and civil society groups have welcomed the CS’s statement, insisting that firm measures are necessary to prevent the resurgence of politically instigated violence, especially in major cities like Nairobi. They have called for strict enforcement of the law to ensure that all political gatherings remain peaceful and that the public is protected from organized intimidation.
As tensions build ahead of future political contests, Murkomen’s remarks highlight the government’s resolve to maintain order and ensure that political competition does not compromise national stability.
