Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has urged President William Ruto to take strong and immediate action against political violence in Kenya. Speaking during a public forum on July 25, 2026, Matiang’i condemned attacks by armed groups wielding clubs, machetes, and arrows that have disrupted political meetings and intimidated citizens.
He emphasized that Kenya, with its functioning government and security forces, should not tolerate such lawlessness. "We are not a banana republic. We have a government in place," Matiang’i stated, calling on President Ruto to act decisively and firmly to restore order.
Law Must Apply Equally
Matiang’i insisted that the law should be enforced uniformly, regardless of political affiliations. "Whether they are your friends or members of your government, sort them out. The law is there for all of us," he declared.
Positioning himself as a viable alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections, Matiang’i asserted that such violent disruptions would not happen under his leadership. "How can I be commander-in-chief of a country where people carry rungus and beat others? It will not work," he said.
Context and Government Response
Matiang’i’s comments come amid growing concerns over organized groups accused of attacking political rallies and public events, raising alarms about political violence and public security.
President Ruto has highlighted the government’s success in combating terrorism and banditry and pledged similar resolve against criminal gangs involved in political violence. "Those terrorists who made life difficult for us, we annihilated them. Bandits and cattle rustlers are no more," he said.
Ruto also acknowledged a national consensus on eliminating "goonism," linking it to political intimidation and disorder. "We are all now in agreement that we will end goonism in the country," he added.
Calls for Accountability
The issue has drawn criticism from political leaders, civil society, and human rights groups demanding impartial probes and accountability for those orchestrating political violence.
