Kenya battles to stop the 'goons and guns' as fears of political violence grow
Summary
Kenya is facing rising political violence as gangs, often hired by politicians, attack opposition members ahead of elections. Security officials say these groups have grown more organized, and authorities have arrested hundreds of suspected gang members, though no politicians have been charged.Key Facts
- Senator Godfrey Osotsi was attacked by masked youths in Kisumu, and he believes the attack was politically motivated.
- Kenya has a history of political violence linked to criminal gangs used for election intimidation since the 1990s.
- The 2007 election violence in Kenya left about 1,500 people dead, with gangs playing a major role.
- Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached in 2024, plans to run for president and has been targeted by attacks multiple times.
- Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said there are over 104 criminal gangs in Kenya connected to politicians.
- Authorities have arrested at least 300 suspects and seized weapons but have not arrested any politicians.
- Opposition leaders accuse police of ignoring or helping gangs that attack political rallies.
- Political violence is increasing even though the next nationwide vote is more than a year away.
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