Former Justice Minister Martha Karua has condemned the violent disruption of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s political rally in Nakuru, accusing President William Ruto’s administration of employing intimidation tactics against opposition gatherings.
Karua described the event as initially well-attended but abruptly interrupted by armed assailants who attacked vehicles and dispersed supporters. She questioned whether this violent approach reflects the Kenya citizens desire, urging for peaceful politics instead.
Warning Against Violent Politics
Addressing the issue on August 15, 2026, Karua warned against the escalation of political violence in the country. She urged those fearful of political competition to withdraw rather than incite unrest, emphasizing that Kenyans reject violence and will not abandon the nation.
References to Past Political Violence and ICC Case
Karua revisited the post-election violence of 2007-08 and President Ruto’s International Criminal Court (ICC) case, asserting that the case was not dropped due to lack of evidence but because witnesses had died, relocated, or gone into hiding. She cautioned that should evidence resurface, Ruto could face renewed prosecution.
Allegations of Foreign Militia Involvement
Further, Karua accused President Ruto of facilitating the entry of individuals linked to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), whom she likened to the Janjaweed militia known for atrocities in Darfur. She claimed these groups were being brought into Kenya to foment political violence and unrest.
"We have seen attempts to import supporters who engage in violent acts," Karua stated, underscoring concerns over the destabilizing impact of such actions.
