By Doris Moraa | July 20, 2026
Mukurwe-ini Member of Parliament John Kaguchia has warned that Kenyans may be forced to defend themselves if incidents of political violence allegedly carried out by hired goons continue without action from the country’s security agencies.
Speaking during a live television interview, the legislator expressed concern over what he described as growing insecurity during political events, arguing that many citizens have lost confidence in the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute those responsible for violent disruptions.
Kaguchia claimed that repeated attacks on political meetings and public gatherings have created fear among citizens, while those allegedly involved continue to operate without facing legal consequences.
According to the MP, the failure to hold perpetrators accountable has weakened public trust in institutions charged with maintaining law and order.
He said many Kenyans no longer believe that complaints made to security agencies will result in meaningful investigations or justice.
The legislator singled out Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, alleging that the public has lost confidence in their ability to address politically related violence impartially.
Kaguchia argued that security agencies must demonstrate independence and professionalism in handling all reports of violence regardless of the political affiliations of those involved.
The MP further linked his concerns to the recent Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, where allegations of violence and voter intimidation dominated political discourse.
He accused authorities of creating what he described as a narrative of insecurity around the by-election, alleging that threats to cancel the election were politically motivated.
Kaguchia also criticized the alleged use of masked individuals to disrupt political gatherings, claiming such incidents undermine constitutional freedoms, including the rights to peaceful assembly, association and political participation.
According to the lawmaker, democracy can only thrive when citizens are able to freely attend political meetings and express their views without fear of intimidation or violence.
He warned that continued inaction by law enforcement agencies could push members of the public to take matters into their own hands in an effort to protect themselves and their communities.
“If citizens continue to witness violence without accountability, there is a risk that they will begin seeking their own ways of protecting democratic spaces,” he said.
Kaguchia emphasized that such a situation would be undesirable and urged the government to act decisively to prevent further escalation.
His remarks come amid growing political tension following reports of violence during recent political activities in different parts of the country.
Opposition leaders have repeatedly alleged that unidentified individuals have been deployed to disrupt public meetings, claims that have intensified calls for independent investigations into politically related violence.
The National Police Service has maintained that it remains committed to protecting all citizens and ensuring security during political events, while investigations into reported incidents continue.
Political analysts have warned that inflammatory rhetoric surrounding political violence should be handled carefully, emphasizing that all grievances should be addressed through lawful institutions and established legal processes.
They argue that restoring public confidence in security agencies will require transparent investigations, accountability for perpetrators and equal enforcement of the law regardless of political affiliation.
As the country gradually moves toward the 2027 General Election, concerns over political security are expected to remain a major issue, with leaders across the political divide calling for peaceful campaigns, respect for constitutional freedoms and strengthened protection of democratic processes.
Kaguchia concluded by urging the government to uphold the rule of law and ensure that every Kenyan can participate in political activities freely and safely without intimidation, violence or fear.
