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Senator's assault sparks national outrage
Kenyan Senator Godfrey Osotsi was brutally attacked by masked assailants in Kisumu last month, an incident captured on CCTV and widely circulated online. The senator alleged the assault was politically motivated, claiming attackers questioned his support for President William Ruto's re-election bid. The attack prompted Parliament to summon top security officials for explanations.
Historical context of political violence
Kenya's history of politically sponsored gangs traces back to the 1990s, when unemployed youths were recruited by politicians to intimidate opponents during elections. These groups played a major role in the 2007 post-election violence, which left approximately 1,500 people dead. Analysts warn the country risks repeating past mistakes as tensions rise ahead of the next general election, due by August 2027.
Gangs evolve into sophisticated networks
Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen told Parliament that criminal gangs have transformed from street-level groups into decentralized, well-organized networks. He revealed over 104 gangs operate nationwide, many under political patronage. While authorities have arrested 300 suspects and seized weapons, no politicians have been detained.
"The gangs are owned by political leaders who mobilize people. It is chaotic. An irresponsible leader is a threat to national security," Murkomen said, without naming specific figures.
Former deputy president targeted
Rigathi Gachagua, removed from office in 2024, has faced repeated attacks since his impeachment. He claims state-sponsored gangs are attempting to sabotage his potential presidential bid. Gachagua and allies report over two dozen incidents, including armed assaults at churches. Opposition leaders and civil society groups accuse police of colluding with or ignoring these groups.
Police response and public skepticism
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja assured lawmakers that security agencies had identified gang leaders, funders, and organizers. However, critics argue the government's response has been inconsistent, with strong rhetoric but limited action. A 2025 report by the National Crime Research Centre found over 120 gangs linked to politicians, describing them as entrenched institutions within communities.
"The question is no longer who the goons are, but who sends them, funds them, and protects them? The real architects of Kenya's rising wave of organized violence remain in the shadows," said security analyst Robert Chege.
Recent incidents fuel concerns
Violence has marred recent political events across Kenya. In February, a 28-year-old man was shot dead during clashes between police and anti-Ruto faction supporters. Earlier, a senatorial candidate aligned with the ruling Kenya Kwanza alliance was forcibly removed from a church service in Kakamega. Last November's by-elections in western and central Kenya were disrupted by attacks on polling agents and voters.
Government denies state involvement
Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura denied allegations of state-sponsored violence, vowing accountability for those financing or supporting criminal gangs. Meanwhile, legal expert Prof. Makau Mutua described the violence as a "Kenyan culture" and an epidemic, warning of a country edging toward a familiar abyss.
"The use of criminal gangs to intimidate or silence individuals undermines our democracy and will not be tolerated," Mwaura told the BBC.
Path forward uncertain
As Kenya prepares for elections, ordinary citizens hope authorities will address the root causes of the violence. Murkomen acknowledged operational challenges, including corruption and information leaks, but pledged to take allegations of police inaction seriously. Analysts warn that without decisive action, the country's political climate will continue to deteriorate.
