The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has expressed concern over rising insecurity in parts of the country, citing recent killings in Isiolo and Embu, as well as renewed violence along the Turkana-West Pokot border. In a statement, the commission warned that these incidents risk undermining security and fundamental freedoms as Kenya heads towards the 2027 General Election.
In Isiolo, five people, including two police officers and three elders, were reportedly killed in an alleged bandit attack on September 16. This followed other attacks in the county, including the shooting of a police constable during an ambush on an Anti-Stock Theft Unit patrol in Burat Ward and the killing of two people along the Meru-Isiolo border in August.
The KNCHR also raised concerns over violence in Embu, where two people died and several others were injured during clashes at Nembure Grounds on September 12. Postmortem examinations confirmed that both men died from gunshot wounds. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an investigation into whether police use of force during the incident was necessary and proportionate.
The commission cited renewed violence along the Turkana-West Pokot border, where armed attacks, livestock theft, and retaliatory violence have occurred. Several people have reportedly been killed, hundreds of livestock stolen, and houses destroyed on both sides of the border. Affected areas include Kakong, Aroo, and Lokwar/Nakuse on the Turkana side and Romos, Morita, Ompolion, and Kases in Pokot North Sub-County.
The KNCHR expressed concern that the insecurity is threatening more than the right to life, with access to education, health, food, property, and freedom of movement also at risk. The commission called for prompt, independent, and impartial investigations into reported violence in Embu and along the Turkana-West Pokot border and urged authorities to hold those responsible accountable.
The KNCHR also raised concerns about inflammatory political rhetoric ahead of the 2027 election, citing recent remarks by several leaders. The commission said statements that threaten or exclude citizens because of their political choices can create fear, deepen divisions, and discourage participation in political activities.
The KNCHR urged political leaders and parties to reject violence, intimidation, and inflammatory rhetoric as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election. It also called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties to remain vigilant and take steps to strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
Key points
- The KNCHR has warned of growing threats to life and political participation amid recent killings and renewed border violence.
- The commission called for prompt investigations into reported violence and urged authorities to hold those responsible accountable.
- The KNCHR urged political leaders and parties to reject violence, intimidation, and inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the 2027 election.
