The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
A parliamentary committee has raised concern over the increasing use of organised gangs in Kenya’s politics, warning that the trend could threaten national security as the country heads toward the 2027 General Election.
The National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security cautioned that politically linked gangs are becoming more common, posing risks to peace, stability, and democratic processes if not addressed early.
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During a visit to Sotik Constituency in Bomet County, where lawmakers were reviewing civil registration services, members of the committee warned that the country could slip into lawlessness if the situation continues.
The delegation, which included Dido Ali Rasso, Mburu Kahangara, Peter Kaluma, and Peter Masara, said the issue of gang activity has become a major concern in Parliament.
Rasso, the committee’s Vice Chairperson, noted that such groups are increasingly targeting leaders, businesspeople, and even security officers, urging swift action to prevent a larger crisis.
The warning follows recent incidents of politically linked violence, including the attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, which has heightened fears of a return to election-period chaos.
Across the country, there have been reports of hired groups disrupting political gatherings, intimidating rivals, and clashing with police. In some cases, gangs have blocked roads, vandalised property, and robbed motorists.
Rasso cautioned that what may begin as informal mobilisation of youth can quickly evolve into serious criminal activity, warning that failure to act could see such groups become more dangerous over time.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also blamed some political leaders for fuelling the trend, accusing them of organising youth into gangs instead of creating opportunities.
A security report presented to President William Ruto in 2025 highlighted the scale of the problem, indicating that Nairobi alone has dozens of gangs linked to crimes such as political violence, kidnapping, and murder.
The committee has pledged to act urgently, including proposing new laws to curb the spread of gangs and strengthen public confidence in security agencies.
The developments underline growing fears that unchecked political violence could undermine Kenya’s stability and democratic progress ahead of the 2027 elections.
