Renowned legal scholar and orator Prof P.L.O. Lumumba has expressed concerns over the growing culture of political gangsterism in Kenya. He warned that violence and intimidation have become entrenched in electoral politics, with aspiring politicians expected to have groups of supporters willing to intimidate or disrupt opponents. This trend reflects a deterioration in the country's political culture, with politicians increasingly relying on intimidation rather than presenting their policies and ideas to voters.
Lumumba described the situation as "political gangsterism" driving politics in the country. He noted that if a politician wants to be an MCA or MP and doesn't have goons, nobody will allow them to articulate their agenda. The scholar's remarks come amid growing concerns over the use of organised groups to disrupt political meetings and intimidate rivals ahead of the 2027 General Election. Incidents involving suspected political goons have been reported at rallies and public gatherings in different parts of the country.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has directed security agencies to take preventive action against suspected political goons. He said police and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations should act on intelligence before such groups reach political gatherings. The concerns have also been raised by political leaders and religious organisations, who have accused politicians of using youth to intimidate, heckle and assault their rivals.
Anglican Church of Kenya Archbishop Jackson Sapit warned that the emergence of organised groups at public gatherings poses a threat to national stability. The use of goons has become a common feature in Kenyan politics, with many politicians relying on them to assert their dominance. This trend has raised concerns about the safety and security of politicians and their supporters.
Lumumba's warnings come as Kenyans prepare for the 2027 General Election, which is 315 days, 20 hours, and 16 minutes away. The election is expected to be a major test of the country's democratic institutions, with many Kenyans hoping for a peaceful and credible process. However, with the growing culture of political gangsterism, there are concerns that the election may be marred by violence and intimidation.
Several radio stations, including Classic 105, Kiss 100, Homeboyz Radio, Gukena FM, East FM, and Radio Jambo, have been reporting on the growing concerns over political gangsterism. The media has a crucial role to play in highlighting the issue and promoting a peaceful and credible election process. By shedding light on the problem, the media can help to hold politicians and security agencies accountable for their actions.
The issue of political gangsterism has sparked a national conversation about the state of Kenya's politics. With the election approaching, it remains to be seen how the government and security agencies will address the issue. One thing is certain, however: the country needs a more robust and effective response to the growing culture of violence and intimidation in electoral politics.
Key points
- Prof P.L.O. Lumumba warns of growing 'political gangsterism' in Kenya.
- The use of organised groups to disrupt political meetings and intimidate rivals is on the rise.
- Security agencies have been directed to take preventive action against suspected political goons.
