Presidential hopeful Fred Matiang’i has pledged a tough crackdown on violent gangs and politically linked criminal networks if elected president, warning that rising “goonism” threatens Kenya’s stability and democracy.
Speaking Friday at a Jubilee Party aspirants’ meeting in Kijauri, Borabu Constituency in Nyamira County, the former Interior Cabinet Secretary said he would restore order through firm policing and accountability within security agencies.
“I was once the Interior Security CS—this nonsense must come to an end. Kenya must never again be held hostage by criminal gangs operating under political protection,” said Matiang’i, who served under former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Matiang’i cautioned that politically instigated violence and organized gangs are already undermining economic progress and shrinking democratic space. He warned that failure to act decisively could push the country into chaos.
“We must end the madness of goonism once and for all if we are to have a country where there is order,” he said, adding that his administration would be “unforgiving” in dismantling criminal networks and prosecuting those responsible.
He also took aim at President William Ruto, criticizing his recent development tours in the Gusii region as ineffective.
“Can’t he be ashamed? The plaques are now beginning to look like epitaphs in graveyards,” Matiang’i remarked.
In Kisii County, Matiang’i accused Governor Simba Arati of allegedly financing groups involved in disrupting political meetings and intimidating opponents—claims he said undermine democratic processes and regional stability.
“These actions are not just irresponsible—they are dangerous for the region. We must end this,” he said, calling for civility in political competition.
The meeting brought together dozens of Jubilee aspirants from Gusii and Kuria regions, including Senator Richard Onyonka and Kitutu Masaba MP Clive Gisairo. Others present were aspirants Ezekiel Machogu and Dr. Enock Ondari.
Onyonka pledged to vigorously campaign against Arati over political differences, while Gisairo criticized the governor’s leadership, saying residents deserve better service delivery.
Matiang’i further linked rising political violence to broader economic frustrations, citing high living costs, limited job opportunities, and slow growth as key concerns facing Kenyans.
He referenced recent incidents of political disruption, including an alleged attack on Senator Godfrey Osotsi and chaos at events attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, as well as rallies involving Edwin Sifuna and James Orengo.
Reports by the Kenya Human Rights Commission have previously indicated that such incidents are often planned rather than spontaneous.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has already ordered crackdowns on politically linked violence.
Meanwhile, Jubilee Party leaders dismissed claims that the party is losing relevance. Party chair Vincent Kemosi insisted the outfit remains strong and is actively preparing for upcoming elections.
“Jubilee Party is the single largest party in the country, so those saying it is dead are wrong,” he said.
Aspirants Machogu and Ondari echoed his sentiments, defending the party’s grassroots support and legacy, even as political rivalry in the region intensifies.
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