Kang’ata condemns violence against Linda Mwananchi in Homa Bay, demands action

Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata Monday condemned violence reported during a Linda Mwananchi mobilisation in Homa Bay, accusing authorities of allowing political goons to attack citizens exercising their constitutional rights.

Kang’ata said the reported violence amounted to a violation of the rights to peaceful assembly and personal security, warning the government against reverting to tactics associated with Kenya’s turbulent political past.

“What we witnessed was not policing. It was sponsored brutality,” Kang’ata said in a statement, alleging that goons were allowed to operate with impunity while police officers stood by.

The governor said Kenyans had fought for decades for multiparty democracy and should not, in 2026, be subjected to violence for demanding accountability from those in power.

He cited Articles 29 and 37 of the Constitution, which protect the right to security of the person and the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions peacefully and unarmed.

Kang’ata also invoked Article 244, which requires the National Police Service to comply with constitutional standards of human rights and fundamental freedoms and to remain professional and accountable.

He called for the arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in the alleged attacks, as well as public officials who may have enabled or facilitated the violence.

The governor further demanded the disbandment of what he described as “shadow units” or political militias allegedly being used against citizens.

He also called for the immediate release of Linda Mwananchi members arrested while participating in what he described as peaceful assembly.

Kang’ata warned the government that political power was temporary and that the standards established while in office could later be used against those currently exercising authority.

“A good government must exercise power as if its worst enemy is holding it tomorrow,” he said.

He urged the government to respect the law regardless of political differences, warning that normalising the use of civilian groups to suppress dissent could eventually expose those in power to similar tactics.

“If you normalize goons today, do not cry when goons are used against you tomorrow. Power is temporary. The Constitution is permanent,” Kang’ata said.

He urged residents of Homa Bay and Kenyans generally to continue exercising their constitutional rights to organise, protest and demand accountability, saying such actions should not be criminalised.

The governor’s statement comes amid heightened political activity as various groups position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election, with concerns over political violence and the conduct of security agencies likely to remain a major issue in the electoral period.