The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has expressed concern over rising insecurity in various parts of the country, particularly in Turkana-West Pokot, Isiolo, and Embu. According to KNCHR chairperson Claris Ogangah, the incidents are threatening Kenyans' right to life, security, freedom of movement, and political participation. The commission warned that these rights must be protected before they are violated. Ogangah emphasized that the right to life is not negotiable and does not depend on geography, ethnicity, political affiliation, or public prominence.
Along the Turkana-West Pokot border, renewed armed attacks linked to banditry, livestock theft, retaliatory violence, and security operations have followed a period of relative calm. The commission reported that several people have been killed, hundreds of livestock stolen, and houses destroyed on both sides of the border. KNCHR also raised concerns over an alleged security operation in Nasolot and Sarmach areas of Pokot Central on Thursday, September 17, during which locals were allegedly assaulted and houses torched. The circumstances and motive of the incident remain unclear.
In Isiolo, KNCHR reported that five people were killed in an alleged bandit attack in Gotu on September 16. The victims included two police officers and three elders who were part of a search party. The commission cited a September 11 gun attack on a passenger vehicle near Kakong'u along the Lodwar-Kapenguria Highway, in which three passengers were injured. These attacks are causing fear, disrupting livelihoods, and undermining peace.
The commission also expressed concern over political violence in Embu, where two people, Mike Macharia, 23, and Moses Munene, 30, died during violence at Nembure Grounds on September 12. Postmortem examinations confirmed that both men died from gunshot wounds. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has opened an investigation into whether police use of force was necessary and proportionate. KNCHR urged political leaders and parties to reject violence and inflammatory rhetoric.
KNCHR chairperson Claris Ogangah emphasized that political competition must be a contest of ideas, not an arena for violence. The commission called on police, the DCI, and IPOA to investigate reported violence independently and impartially. Security agencies were urged to conduct disarmament operations in a manner that respects human rights. The IEBC and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties were also urged to strengthen public confidence ahead of the election.
The commission further expressed concern over inflammatory political rhetoric ahead of the 2027 election, stating that such statements could discourage free participation. KNCHR warned that statements that threaten or exclude citizens because of their political choices could undermine the democratic process. The commission emphasized that the time to protect life is before it is lost.
KNCHR reiterated its commitment to protecting human rights and urged all stakeholders to work together to prevent further violence and ensure a peaceful 2027 General Election. The commission's concerns highlight the need for sustained security and prevention measures rather than episodic operations. By working together, Kenyans can ensure that their rights are protected and that the country remains peaceful and stable.
Key points
- KNCHR raises alarm over bandit attacks and political violence ahead of 2027 polls
- Commission reports several incidents of violence and human rights abuses in Turkana-West Pokot, Isiolo, and Embu
- KNCHR urges security agencies and political leaders to take action to prevent further violence and protect human rights
