By Doris Moraa, July 15, 2026
The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has called on Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to take decisive action against politicians accused of financing and deploying criminal gangs to cause violence, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to national peace and security.
Speaking amid growing concerns over politically instigated unrest witnessed in several parts of the country, Atwoli said the increasing use of hired goons during demonstrations and political gatherings risks undermining Kenya’s democratic gains if left unchecked.
He urged security agencies to move beyond arresting street-level perpetrators and instead pursue the financiers, organizers and political leaders allegedly sponsoring criminal activities.
“We cannot continue allowing politicians to recruit and finance criminal gangs to terrorize innocent Kenyans. The government must act firmly against those behind these activities before the situation gets out of hand,” Atwoli said.
His remarks come as the government intensifies efforts to restore law and order following recent incidents of violence, vandalism and looting reported during protests in several towns.
In response, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has directed security agencies to launch a nationwide operation targeting armed gangs and individuals suspected of orchestrating politically motivated violence.
Murkomen said the government would not tolerate criminal groups operating under the cover of political demonstrations, emphasizing that every Kenyan has a constitutional right to peaceful assembly but not to violence, destruction of property or intimidation of other citizens.
“The National Police Service has been instructed to dismantle criminal networks behind these acts of violence. No individual will be spared because of political influence or social status,” Murkomen said.
The Cabinet Secretary further directed the Inspector General of Police to ensure all suspects involved in organizing, financing or participating in criminal activities are investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
According to the Ministry of Interior, at least 20 suspects have already been arrested following recent politically linked clashes reported in Kisumu and Nyahururu. Investigators are pursuing additional suspects believed to have coordinated the violence.
Security agencies say investigations are now focusing on identifying financiers and planners who allegedly mobilized gangs to infiltrate demonstrations, loot businesses, attack members of the public and destroy property.
Murkomen noted that intelligence-led operations would continue across the country to dismantle organized criminal networks and prevent further violence.
Atwoli welcomed the government’s firm stance but stressed that lasting peace would only be achieved if those financing political violence are held personally accountable.
He also appealed to young people not to allow themselves to be manipulated into engaging in criminal activities for financial gain, saying such actions only expose them to arrest, injury and possible prosecution.
The COTU Secretary General further urged political leaders across the political divide to promote peaceful engagement, respect the rule of law and discourage supporters from participating in acts of violence.
He warned that continued political incitement could negatively affect the country’s economy, discourage investment and threaten the livelihoods of ordinary Kenyans who depend on a stable business environment.
As investigations continue, the Ministry of Interior has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property while ensuring that individuals found culpable of organizing or sponsoring violence face the full force of the law.
