A troubling pattern is emerging in Kenya, where groups of hired goons are attacking government critics at public events. These attackers operate openly, disrupting meetings, funerals, and other gatherings while intimidating leaders who dare to oppose powerful politicians.
What is even more shocking is that police officers, who are supposed to maintain order, often stand by and do nothing as the chaos unfolds.
Sources reveal that these attacks are not random but well-coordinated operations with specific targets in mind. In some cases, the goons arrive at events early, blend in with the crowd, and wait for the right moment to strike.
This level of organization suggests that these actions are being planned and funded by individuals with significant influence.
Those who fall victim to the attacks often have one thing in common, they have spoken out against the government or powerful political figures.
Sirisia MP Peter Salasya recently experienced such an attack, which he believes was premeditated. “They knew I would come. The moment I entered, someone warned me at the gate,” he said.
His experience reflects what many opposition figures and independent leaders are facing across the country. The attackers usually chant slogans in support of top politicians, leaving no doubt about their intentions. Videos from recent incidents show them creating disturbances, assaulting individuals, and forcing leaders to leave events.
The growing concern is the role of the police, or rather their lack of action. In many instances, officers are present but fail to intervene, raising serious questions about whether law enforcement is being manipulated to serve political interests rather than the general public.
Many Kenyans are now worried that police officers are being instructed to turn a blind eye, allowing the goons to operate freely. This apparent inaction has led to concerns that the government is using intimidation tactics to silence critics instead of fostering a culture of democracy and accountability.
The rising wave of political violence has caught the attention of senior government officials. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has spoken against these attacks, warning that such incidents threaten the country’s stability.
“We can’t always agree, but we should let every project be discussed openly without violence,” he said.
His remarks highlight the dangerous path the country is taking if political intolerance continues to grow.As these attacks continue, there is growing fear that Kenya’s democratic space is shrinking. If political figures cannot express their opinions freely without the risk of violence, the country could be heading toward a dangerous period where dissent is met with force rather than debate.
Many citizens and leaders are now demanding urgent action from the government to address the situation. The big question remains: will the authorities take decisive steps to stop these goons, or will they allow political violence to become the new normal?
