Three Kenyan human rights organizations, the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), Katiba Institute, and Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU), have filed a petition with the High Court. They are seeking to compel the government to form a taskforce within 30 days to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in political violence. The petition cites several instances of attacks on individuals participating in political and social activities.
The petition names several high-ranking government officials, including Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, Director-General of the National Intelligence Service Noordin Haji, Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja, and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen. The organizations argue that the failure to address attacks on individuals participating in political activities threatens the constitutional rights and the integrity of the electoral process.
The petition highlights several instances of violence, including an attack on the KHRC offices in Nairobi on July 6, 2025. The organizations argue that such incidents can undermine public trust in the government and the electoral process. They claim that despite existing laws to address political violence, there have been no successful investigations or prosecutions.
The proposed taskforce would comprise officials from the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations. It would investigate the financing and organization of gangs involved in political violence and prosecute those found guilty. The organizations also want the taskforce to submit regular reports to the court on its progress in preventing and investigating such incidents.
The petition emphasizes the importance of the pre-election period, arguing that it is as critical as the election itself. The organizations cite the Constitution, which requires that elections be free from violence, threats, and undue influence. They argue that elections marred by violence cannot meet the required standards of freedom and fairness.
The organizations have documented several incidents of violence since early 2025, including attacks on politicians, activists, and journalists. They argue that such incidents can intimidate citizens and prevent them from exercising their rights to assemble and express themselves.
The petition seeks to ensure that the 2027 general elections are free and fair. The organizations hope that the court will order the government to take proactive measures to prevent violence and ensure accountability for those responsible.
Key points
- The petition cites several instances of attacks on individuals participating in political activities.
- The proposed taskforce would investigate the financing and organization of gangs involved in political violence.
- The organizations argue that failure to address such incidents can undermine public trust in the government and the electoral process.
