National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has raised alarm over a surge in political violence at public rallies warning that the trend threatens democratic space as the country edges closer to the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a church service at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Siyoi, in Kapenguria Constituency, West Pokot County, Wetang’ula cautioned that organised disruptions linked to goonism could erode public confidence in the electoral process if left unchecked.
“The increasing incidents of political violence and intimidation must not be tolerated. They undermine the constitutional right to association and create fear among citizens,” he said.
His concerns were echoed by Catholic Bishop Emeritus Maurice Crowley, who blamed political actors for fuelling unrest by sponsoring disruptive groups and warned of a troubling trajectory ahead of the next election.
“I challenge politicians to stop goonism and the politics of insults and division if they truly love their country,” he said.
The clergy also urged Kenyans to take personal responsibility in rejecting violence and divisive rhetoric.
Wetang’ula called on security agencies to act firmly to restore order at political gatherings and safeguard citizens’ rights to assemble and participate freely in public affairs.
“The culture of goonism has no place in a democratic society. Every Kenyan must feel safe to engage in political processes without fear,” he said.
He further cautioned young people against being lured into politically instigated violence warning that such actions could jeopardise their future and expose them to legal consequences.
Turning to development, the Speaker noted that West Pokot County holds significant untapped potential, particularly in mineral resources such as gold and limestone.
He said the government is advancing the Natural Resources Benefit Sharing Bill 2022 aimed at ensuring communities derive fair value from local resources through a structured framework for sharing royalties from extractive industries.
Wetang’ula was accompanied by several leaders, including West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin, Senator Hon. Julius Murgor, Kapenguria MP Hon. Samuel Moroto, Webuye East MP Hon. Martin Pepela, County MP Hon. Rael Kasiwai, former Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha and former Governor John Lonyangapo.
The leaders also criticised opposition figures over what they termed as disrespect towards President William Ruto.
“The President is a symbol of unity and deserves respect,” said Wetang’ula.
He further faulted former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of leading attacks against the Head of State during a recent funeral service in Nyandarua.
Governor Kachapin, alongside Hon. Kasiwai and Hon. Pepela cautioned against the resurgence of tribal politics insisting that national unity must take precedence over ethnic interests.
“Kenya is bigger than any tribal leader. We will not sit back and watch leaders promote tribalism at the expense of national unity,” said Kachapin.
The leaders reaffirmed their support for President Ruto and expressed confidence in his development agenda, saying it positions him strongly for a second term.
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