The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has called for urgent and impartial investigations into reported cases of political violence, incitement and the alleged use of organised groups commonly referred to as “goons”.
The commission wants the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and National Police Service to take action against individuals found culpable of political violence as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.
In a statement on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, KNCHR said it was “gravely concerned” by increasing reports of fatalities, intimidation, destruction of property, obstruction of movement, attacks on journalists and the alleged mobilisation of organised groups in connection with political activities.
The commission called on the DCI to urgently, independently and impartially investigate reported cases, including allegations of incitement, violence and destruction of property.
It further urged investigators to ensure that all persons found culpable—including politicians, perpetrators, organisers, financiers and inciters of violence—are brought to justice in accordance with the law.
The KNCHR also wants the NCIC to expedite investigations into allegations of hate speech, incitement and conduct likely to undermine national cohesion, and to take appropriate action within its statutory mandate.
The commission separately called on the Inspector-General of the National Police Service to take a firm, impartial and lawful stance against political violence and “goonism”.
It said police should ensure equal and effective protection for people lawfully exercising their constitutional rights and freedoms, including journalists and media workers, while taking timely action to prevent and investigate politically motivated violence.
The KNCHR’s demands follow a series of incidents it documented across the country between June and August.
The commission cited an attack on journalists from Mt Elgon TV in Kimilili, Bungoma County, where one journalist was seriously injured, as well as the reported assault of a Nation Media Group photojournalist during an incident outside the Mombasa County Assembly.
It also cited political violence in Homa Bay on August 16, where two people—a police officer and a civilian—were reportedly killed. Other incidents included attacks on political convoys and disruptions of political activities in several parts of the country.
The commission said political speeches and public utterances were also a major concern, particularly where rhetoric could encourage hostility, intimidation or violence against people holding opposing political views.
According to KNCHR, some politicians had used rhetoric that included urging supporters to attack or harass opponents, describing rival groups as “animals,” “diseases” or “infestations,” and framing violence as a form of self-defence.
The commission acknowledged that some statements may have been intended metaphorically but warned that political leaders wield significant influence over their supporters and that such remarks could be interpreted literally or acted upon.
It urged politicians to exercise caution and said, “Political differences must never be resolved through violence, threats, coercion or impunity.” KNCHR also urged political parties and their supporters to reject violence and inflammatory rhetoric, while calling on young people to reject recruitment, payment or mobilisation for violent activities.
The commission said it would continue monitoring the situation and strengthening early-warning and prevention mechanisms ahead of the 2027 elections.