Concerns are growing over the risk of election-related violence as political activity intensifies ahead of upcoming polls. PIC: AIG
Yasmin Bilal
Growing concern is emerging in Kenya over the risk of election-related violence as political activity intensifies ahead of the next general election cycle, amid fears over the growing influence of armed groups in parts of the country.
Security analysts and political observers have raised alarm over the spread of organised gangs, believed to number more than 100 across various regions. While many are linked to criminal activity, concerns are mounting that some are being drawn into political disputes and used to intimidate rivals during periods of heightened political tension.
The presence of these groups has become increasingly visible in urban centres and politically sensitive areas, where they have reportedly been linked to disruptions at rallies, intimidation at public gatherings, and clashes between rival supporters. Although such incidents are not new in Kenya’s political history, observers fear the scale and coordination of these groups may be growing.
In some communities, residents have expressed unease around political events, with authorities occasionally deploying heightened security amid fears of confrontation. There are also concerns that certain groups wield local influence, complicating enforcement efforts.
Analysts point to high youth unemployment, economic pressure, and fierce competition for political influence as factors fuelling the problem. These conditions are believed to make vulnerable young people more susceptible to recruitment by criminal networks and political actors.
There are also fears that inflammatory political rhetoric could heighten tensions as campaigning gathers momentum. Kenya has previously experienced outbreaks of post-election unrest, making the current political climate particularly sensitive.
Community leaders and political commentators have urged restraint, warning that the use of informal armed groups for political gain could erode public trust and threaten stability. They argue that normalising such practices risks deepening divisions, especially in contested areas.
At the same time, renewed calls have emerged for reforms aimed at strengthening civic engagement and limiting the influence of non-state armed groups in electoral processes.
While Kenya has experienced peaceful democratic transitions in recent years, concerns remain over the fragile balance between political competition and public safety as the country moves closer to another election period.