The Linda Mwananchi Aspirants Caucus has condemned the rising wave of political violence and the use of hired goons to disrupt political activities, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to Kenya’s democracy and constitutional order.
Addressing a press conference, the caucus, which brings together young leaders seeking elective office under the Linda Mwananchi Movement, expressed concern over what it described as growing political intolerance and the increasing use of violence to silence dissenting voices.
The group said Kenya’s democratic space must remain one where citizens freely assemble, campaign, associate and express their political views without fear of intimidation or violence.
Citing the Constitution, the caucus said Articles 33, 36, 37 and 38 guarantee freedom of expression, association, peaceful assembly and political participation, rights it argued are being undermined by politically sponsored violence.
The aspirants alleged that recent incidents in areas including Keumbu, Kitengela, Nyeri and Nairobi’s All Saints Cathedral had exposed a disturbing pattern in which criminal gangs allegedly operated alongside or with the protection of some police officers.
They said the continued loss of lives, injuries and destruction of property during political activities was unacceptable, arguing that no political ambition was worth the life of a Kenyan.
“The increasing normalization of goon culture is a dangerous precedent.
Families have been left with graves where dreams once lived.
No ambition, no party, no seat, no coalition and no slogan is worth the life of a single Kenyan,” the caucus said.
The group called on the Inspector-General of Police, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and other security agencies to investigate and prosecute not only those directly involved in acts of violence but also the financiers, recruiters, transporters, coordinators and political beneficiaries behind the attacks.
It also urged the Inspector-General to commence disciplinary action within 48 hours against police officers alleged to have facilitated or abetted political violence.
Further, the caucus called on the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties to enforce constitutional provisions against political parties or officials found to be promoting or benefiting from violence and intimidation.
The group also demanded that the government publish regular updates on investigations into deaths, injuries and destruction of property linked to political violence and urged the National Police Service to provide impartial protection to all peaceful political meetings and rallies.
The caucus appealed to political leaders across the political divide to exercise restraint, embrace tolerance and reject violence as a political strategy, saying democracy is strengthened through peaceful competition of ideas rather than intimidation.
It expressed optimism that Kenya could chart a more inclusive political future, pledging to champion what it described as a people-centred, accountable and transformative system of governance.
READ ALSO;
Court Declines Bid By Officials And Businessman Jayesh Saini To Exit Software Suit
