Kenya is facing growing fears of political violence

Kenya is facing growing fears of political violence ahead of the 2027 elections, with attacks on politicians, the resurgence of criminal gangs, and gender-based violence against women leaders raising alarm. Analysts warn that inflammatory rhetoric, state-linked gangs, and weak institutions could fuel unrest if not addressed urgently. Violence in Kenya often spikes when incumbents run for re-election and when election credibility is questioned. President William Ruto’s 2027 bid is already heightening tensions. Over 100 politically sponsored gangs are active, often hired to intimidate rivals, disrupt rallies, or attack opponents. These groups have evolved into sophisticated networks tied to politicians. Senator Godfrey Osotsi (he is the Senator for Vihiga County in Kenya and chairs the Senate Committee on County Public Investments and Special Funds. He is also a computer science expert with academic background in computer science and information technology management) was violently attacked in Kisumu in April 2026, allegedly for not supporting Ruto’s re-election. This case is emblematic of how political loyalty—or the lack of it—can trigger violence. Similar attacks have been documented against other figures, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has faced repeated harassment since his impeachment. These assaults are often linked to politically sponsored gangs, which operate with impunity and sometimes in collusion with state actors. Civil society organizations have warned that such violence undermines democracy, silences dissent, and raises fears of unrest as Kenya approaches the 2027 elections. Violence Against Politicians Politicians across party lines face intimidation, assaults, and harassment, often in public spaces and sometimes in the presence of police. Civil society groups accuse police of colluding with gangs or failing to intervene, fueling perceptions of state-sponsored violence. Hostile political speech, ethnic profiling, and online disinformation campaigns often precede outbreaks of violence. Violence Against Women in Politics Women leaders face physical, psychological, sexual, economic, and digital violence, deterring participation and silencing voices. During the 2022 elections, 2 in 5 women candidates on Twitter faced sexualized abuse, often targeting appearance rather than policy. Women activists and politicians such as Catherine Wanjeri wa Kariuki and Njeri Maina have endured detention, assaults, and intimidation while defending democracy. Key Risks Ahead Weak trust in the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) could spark unrest. Without reforms, women leaders remain disproportionately vulnerable, undermining inclusive democracy. Safeguards Needed Strengthen independent institutions (judiciary, IEBC) to ensure credible elections. Crack down on politically sponsored gangs and hold leaders accountable. Empower media and civil society to counter disinformation and document abuses. Enforce protections against gender-based violence in politics, ensuring women’s safe participation. BBC, Kenya battles to stop the 'goons and guns' as fears of political violence grow