Human rights organisations in Kenya have filed a petition with the court seeking urgent action against organised violence targeting political rallies, religious gatherings, civic forums, and journalists ahead of the 2027 General Election. The petition was filed by the Kenya Human Rights Commission, Katiba Institute, the Independent Medico-Legal Unit, and other individuals. They accuse State agencies of failing to prevent, investigate, and prosecute repeated attacks, warning that the violence threatens constitutional rights and could undermine a safe electoral environment.
The petition cites alleged attacks in different parts of the country between June 2025 and September 2026, including incidents in Nairobi, Kisumu, Kisii, Meru, Nyandarua, and Homa Bay. The petitioners point to the July 2025 attack at the Kenya Human Rights Commission offices and the June 2026 attack at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi, arguing that the incidents demonstrate the need for stronger State action. These incidents have raised concerns about the safety of citizens and the ability of the State to protect them.
The petitioners have sued the Attorney-General, the Director-General of the National Intelligence Service, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Interior Cabinet Secretary. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights are listed as interested parties. The groups claim that some attacks occurred near police officers who failed to intervene promptly, and question whether authorities have responded equally to violence affecting opposition leaders, civil society, and religious institutions.
The groups further claim that the alleged violence has resulted in injuries and damage to property, and that some journalists were assaulted, cameras confiscated, and members of the public injured during the Ol Kalou by-election in July 2026. They argue that failure to address the alleged violence could discourage political participation ahead of the August 10, 2027 General Election. The petitioners are seeking a coordinated national framework to prevent, investigate, and prosecute organised political violence.
The petitioners want the court to order the preservation of evidence, including CCTV footage, witness statements, and police records, and compel police to provide adequate security at lawful public gatherings. They are also seeking regular reports to the court on investigations and prosecutions. The court is being asked to declare that the alleged violence and the State's response violate constitutional rights, including freedom of expression, assembly, and political participation.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission, Katiba Institute, and the Independent Medico-Legal Unit are among the prominent human rights organisations involved in the petition. The petitioners argue that the State has a responsibility to protect its citizens and ensure that their rights are not violated. They claim that the State's failure to prevent and investigate the alleged violence has created a culture of impunity.
The court is yet to give directions on the petitions. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the safety and security of citizens ahead of the 2027 General Election. The petitioners hope that the court will take swift action to address the alleged violence and ensure that the State takes its responsibilities seriously.
Key points
- Human rights groups seek court action against organised violence targeting political rallies and journalists ahead of Kenya's 2027 General Election.
- The petition cites alleged attacks in different parts of the country between June 2025 and September 2026.
- The petitioners are seeking a coordinated national framework to prevent, investigate, and prosecute organised political violence.
