Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has accused President William Ruto’s administration of turning political violence into a tool for maintaining power, following a weekend marked by clashes and attacks during political activities in different parts of the country.
Speaking after the incidents, Matiang’i claimed that the violence witnessed in several areas appeared coordinated and could not have taken place without the knowledge of senior government officials and the security leadership.
Photo: Courtesy | Fred Matiang’i
The former Cabinet Secretary cited a series of incidents, including the stoning of two vehicles belonging to his team in Mulot, attacks targeting opposition leaders in Nakuru, and unrest reported in Salgaa before clashes later erupted in Homa Bay on Sunday.
Matiang’i questioned how such incidents could occur repeatedly without the security agencies being aware of them.
He argued that, based on his experience as a former Interior Cabinet Secretary, large-scale incidents of political violence would ordinarily require significant organisation and resources.
According to Matiang’i, the developments are an indication that Kenya could be heading into a dangerous political period if violence continues to be tolerated.
He warned that the country was approaching what he described as a “final descent towards anarchy”, urging political leaders to reject violence regardless of their political differences.
Matiang’i Announces Opposition Consultations
The presidential aspirant said he would begin consultations with other opposition leaders to determine how they should respond to what he described as an increasingly hostile political environment.
Matiang’i maintained that political disagreements should never be used to justify attacks against citizens or political opponents.
He also raised concerns over what he termed “digital terrorism,” alleging that social media accounts associated with opposition figures were being targeted.
The former Interior CS further claimed that opposition leaders had encountered vehicles allegedly fitted with signal-jamming equipment during political rallies.
He questioned how such equipment could be deployed without the involvement of well-resourced actors, suggesting that state agencies could be behind the disruptions.
Claims of Youth Being Used in Political Violence
Matiang’i also accused the government of exploiting young people by allegedly involving them in political violence and criminal activities.
He claimed that some youths were being used as instruments to disrupt political gatherings while receiving what he described as a consistent source of income from such activities.
The former Interior CS condemned the violence reported over the weekend and sent condolences to families who lost their loved ones.
He called on political actors to abandon violence and pursue political competition through peaceful and democratic means.
Matiang’i’s remarks come as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election, with opposition figures increasingly raising concerns over alleged intimidation, political violence and the use of state resources against government critics.
The government has previously faced similar accusations from opposition leaders, making political security and the conduct of rallies increasingly prominent issues as the country moves closer to the next general election.
Story by Joel Esabu