By Erestinah Jane, July 13, 2026
Former Chief Justice David Maraga has warned that Kenya risks descending into lawlessness if the country fails to decisively address the growing wave of political violence, commonly referred to as goonism, ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking amid rising concerns over election-related violence and intimidation in various parts of the country, Maraga said the increasing use of organized groups to disrupt political activities poses a serious threat to Kenya’s democracy, constitutional order and the rule of law.
He cautioned that unless firm action is taken against those sponsoring or engaging in political violence, the country could experience heightened instability as the 2027 polls draw closer.
Maraga urged law enforcement agencies, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and other state institutions to enforce the law impartially and ensure that all individuals involved in acts of violence, voter intimidation and destruction of property are held accountable, regardless of their political affiliation.
The former Chief Justice emphasized that political competition should be conducted peacefully and within the confines of the Constitution, noting that violence has no place in a democratic society.
He also called on political leaders to exercise restraint in their public statements and discourage their supporters from engaging in confrontations that could escalate tensions during the campaign period.
According to Maraga, the growing normalization of goonism in political contests undermines public confidence in democratic institutions and discourages citizens from freely participating in the electoral process.
He further appealed to young people not to allow themselves to be exploited by politicians to perpetrate violence, urging them instead to become ambassadors of peace and national unity.
Maraga stressed that safeguarding Kenya’s democracy requires a collective commitment from political parties, security agencies, civil society organizations and the public to reject violence and uphold the rule of law.
His remarks come as concerns continue to mount over reports of election-related violence, voter intimidation and allegations of political hooliganism in several parts of the country ahead of key by-elections and the 2027 General Election.
The former Chief Justice concluded by urging all stakeholders to protect the country’s democratic gains by ensuring that future elections are peaceful, credible and conducted in accordance with the Constitution, warning that failure to act decisively against political violence could erode public trust in Kenya’s electoral system and national institutions.
