National Goons Leader Breaks Silence: Why Goons Were Sent to Cause Chaos During By-Election
Recent by-elections in Kenya have been marred by widespread reports of violence and intimidation, with several incidents attributed to groups commonly referred to as “goons.”
These events occurred in constituencies such as Kasipul, Malava, Mbeere North, and Kabuchai, where candidates and their supporters reported attacks aimed at disrupting the electoral process.
In Kasipul, for instance, Peter Kaluma, serving as a polling-agent observer, was reportedly attacked by a group described as goons, during which his bodyguard lost a firearm.
In Malava, candidate Seth Panyako alleged that his hotel was stormed the night before the election, an incident seen as an attempt on his life. Other reports included stoning of vehicles, destruction of property, and attacks on campaign agents.
Allegations have also surfaced regarding the involvement or complicity of state agencies. Leaders such as Eugene Wamalwa have publicly condemned what they describe as “state-sponsored goons and compromised officials” facilitating violence during the by-elections.
Rigathi Gachagua similarly accused the government of using goons and armed officers to influence outcomes in constituencies like Malava and Mbeere North.
Concerns were raised over the deployment of plain-clothed police officers, with fears that some might have acted as hired goons.
Historically, the use of goons in Kenyan politics is not new. Investigative reports describe how young men are hired, sometimes for as little as KSh 500, to create chaos, intimidate voters or opposition supporters, or disrupt events.
This practice has evolved into an informal “industry,” with middlemen and political fixers coordinating efforts, sometimes allegedly with tacit collusion from security agents.
Critics warn that normalizing such practices risks turning violence into a regular tool of political competition, undermining democratic norms.
In response, the government has announced crackdowns on political goons. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen stated that security agencies would take decisive action against goons and their financiers.
President William Ruto directed the national police to arrest anyone using youth for political violence, labeling such acts a threat to national security.
However, skeptics argue that these measures are insufficient as long as there remains perceived collusion between police and political gangs.
The reasons for deploying goons appear multifaceted. They are used to intimidate and suppress opposition, influence election outcomes by scaring voters or disrupting polling processes, justify heavy-handed security responses, and exploit economic vulnerability by paying young people to commit acts of violence. This exploitation contributes to cycles of political instability and criminality.
Regarding the claim of a “national goons leader” breaking silence, there is currently no credible evidence or verified public confession from any individual claiming to be the national head who orchestrated goon activity.
What is documented is the operation of networks of hired youth, sometimes allegedly supported by political interests, which function in a coordinated but decentralized manner.
The persistence of goon-related violence poses a significant threat to democracy in Kenya. It undermines the rule of law, exploits vulnerable youth, and normalizes political intimidation.
Ensuring accountability, transparent investigations, and civil society oversight remain crucial to curbing the influence of goons in the electoral process.
While there is strong evidence of goons being used to sow chaos during by-elections, the reality points to dispersed networks rather than a single identifiable leader.
Vigilance from media, civic organizations, and the public is essential to expose these networks and safeguard the integrity of elections.
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