By Andrew Mbuva
The United Alternative Government and the Linda Mwananchi movement have called for urgent action to curb rising cases of political violence in Kenya, warning that the incidents could threaten the country’s preparations for the 2027 General Election.
In a joint statement issued in Nairobi on Wednesday, August 19, the groups said the reported attacks involving political leaders, journalists, citizens and police officers could no longer be dismissed as isolated confrontations between rival supporters.
They cited reported incidents involving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in Rongai Constituency, Nakuru County, former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i at Mulot in Bomet County, and violence surrounding Linda Mwananchi activities in Homa Bay and Keumbu in Kisii County.
The groups called for independent investigations into the incidents, particularly allegations that some of the attacks occurred in the presence or within the operational reach of police officers.
They questioned how organised groups of armed civilians could allegedly mobilise, move openly and attack political leaders, journalists, members of the public and even police officers without being stopped.
“The protection of democracy cannot be left to citizens and political leaders alone,” the statement said, calling on constitutional institutions and the international community to help safeguard democratic governance and the rule of law.
The coalition urged Kenyans to reject political violence regardless of who perpetrates it or who stands to benefit. It also called on religious leaders, civil society organisations, lawyers, professional bodies, the media and youth organisations to resist the normalisation of intimidation, militia activity and politically sponsored violence.
The groups further called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to work with relevant institutions to ensure Kenyans can participate in the 2027 elections freely, peacefully and without fear.
The United Alternative Government also called on the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to closely monitor developments in Kenya and conduct a preliminary assessment of whether information exists to warrant examination under the Rome Statute.
The statement said that if evidence emerges of widespread or systematic attacks against civilians being organised, financed, directed or tolerated by people in positions of authority, the ICC Prosecutor should consider exercising powers under Article 15 of the Rome Statute.
The groups specifically named President William Ruto in their call, while stressing that the demand was not intended to prejudge the criminal responsibility of any individual.
They argued that accountability remains an important deterrent against political violence and warned that political office should not shield anyone from international criminal accountability where the legal requirements of the Rome Statute are met.
The coalition also announced plans to establish a People's Forum for Electoral Preparedness, which it said would be coordinated by former Chief Justice David Maraga, former Attorney General Justin Muturi and Azimio Secretary General Caroli Omondi.
The forum is scheduled for October 9, 2026.
The statement was signed by a group of opposition and political leaders, including Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, James Orengo, Fred Matiang’i, Justin Muturi, Eugene Wamalwa, David Maraga, Caroli Omondi and James Kilonzi.
The coalition said the 2027 election must be based on political ideas and democratic competition rather than intimidation and violence.
“The future of Kenya will not be determined by militias or fear. It will be determined by the sovereign will of the people,” the statement declared.
