The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has warned that a growing pattern of political intolerance, violence and intimidation could undermine Kenya’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a statement issued on August 18, 2026, the commission said it had documented a series of incidents between June and August involving attacks on civilians, journalists, political actors and security officers, as well as destruction of property and disruption of political and civic activities.
The KNCHR said the incidents pointed to an increasingly worrying political environment in which violence and intimidation were being used to interfere with citizens’ rights and freedoms.
“All these incidents point to a worrying and recurring pattern of political intolerance, violence and intimidation that threatens democratic participation, public safety and the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and which, if not urgently addressed, risks leading the country into a precipice,” the commission said.
Among the incidents cited was the disruption of a public participation forum on the 2026/27 national budget at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi on June 12, where armed men allegedly stormed the premises, assaulted participants and damaged property.
The commission also cited a fatal attack during a political rally in Keumbu, Kisii County, an attack on a political convoy near Gilgil and disruptions of political activities in Kisumu and Nyahururu.
Other incidents included an attack on journalists from Mt Elgon TV while covering a political aspirant in Kimilili, Bungoma County, and violence reported during the period preceding the Ol Kalou constituency by-election.
The commission further reported that youth advocates and human rights defenders associated with VOCAL Africa and partner organisations were attacked and dispersed outside the Mombasa County Assembly while presenting a memorandum on implementation of the Mombasa County Youth Policy.
A Nation Media Group photojournalist covering the event was also reportedly injured. The KNCHR said political violence had also been reported in Nakuru Town West and Homa Bay, where two people, including a police officer and a civilian, reportedly lost their lives on August 16 during politically related violence. Similar reports emerged from Mulot, Bomet County, and Salgaa.
The commission warned that recurring road blockades, obstruction of political convoys and disruption of rallies, meetings and church services risked normalising practices that undermine constitutional freedoms.
It said such actions interfere with the rights to freedom of movement, peaceful assembly, association and political participation guaranteed under Articles 36, 37, 38 and 39 of the Constitution.
The KNCHR urged political leaders and their supporters to reject violence and inflammatory rhetoric, warning that political differences should not be resolved through threats, coercion or force.
It said the safety and security of all Kenyans must be protected as the country prepares for the 2027 elections.