Linda Mwananchi Aspirants Demand Action Against Political Violence, Warn Over Rising Goons-for-Hire Culture

By Our Reporter Maurice Momanyi

Nairobi, July 7, 2026 – The Linda Mwananchi Movement Aspirants Caucus team led by Alex Matere, aspiring MP Westlands constituency has condemned what it describes as a growing culture of political intolerance and the use of hired goons to disrupt political activities, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to Kenya’s democracy.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the caucus accused some political actors of sponsoring violence, intimidation and destruction of property to silence opponents with differing political views.

The group said such actions undermine the democratic gains enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya, arguing that every Kenyan has the right to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and participation in political affairs.

Citing Articles 33, 36, 37 and 38 of the Constitution, the caucus maintained that political competition should be based on ideas and respectful engagement rather than violence and intimidation.

The aspirants expressed concern over recent incidents in which political meetings have allegedly been disrupted by groups of hired youths, saying the trend has resulted in loss of lives, injuries, destruction of property and fear among citizens seeking to exercise their constitutional rights.

They said no political ambition or party interest should come at the cost of human life, noting that families have been left grieving while communities continue to bear the scars of politically instigated violence.

The caucus called on the National Police Service, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and other security agencies to investigate and prosecute not only those directly involved in acts of violence but also the financiers, organisers, recruiters and political beneficiaries behind them.

It also urged disciplinary action against police officers accused of failing to stop violence or allegedly colluding with criminal groups during political events.

Further, the movement called on the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties to take action against political parties or individuals found promoting or benefiting from violence and intimidation.

The group also urged the government to provide regular public updates on investigations into deaths, injuries and destruction of property linked to political violence, while calling on police to provide equal protection to all lawful political meetings regardless of political affiliation.

The caucus appealed to political leaders across the political divide to embrace tolerance, dialogue and peaceful competition, saying leadership should unite rather than divide the country.

It concluded by urging Kenyans, particularly the youth, to reject political violence and remain committed to constitutionalism, the rule of law and peaceful democratic participation, while expressing confidence that the movement would offer what it termed a transformative and accountable leadership alternative in the coming electoral cycle.