A group of women from Nairobi’s Mathare have condemned the recent violence reported in Homa Bay, calling on political leaders to reject violence and promote peaceful engagement ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a forum in the area on Monday, the women said they were deeply concerned by the injuries and loss of life reported during the clashes, as well as allegations that some political leaders may have played a role in encouraging or orchestrating the violence.
They warned that political intolerance could undermine Kenya’s democracy, social cohesion and national stability, urging Kenyans to remain vigilant as the country enters the election period.
“Political competition should be defined by ideas, policies, and persuasion, not intimidation or violence,” the women said in a joint statement.
They also cautioned young people against being used by politicians to advance political interests through violence.
“To our young people, our children, and our siblings: do not allow yourselves to be used as instruments for settling political disputes through violence,” they said.
The women noted that women have experienced the devastating effects of political violence and intolerance and understand the consequences of allowing such tensions to escalate.
They urged political leaders to exercise restraint, tolerate differing views and respect their opponents regardless of political affiliation.
The group also called on women seeking elective positions to uphold peaceful and lawful political engagement, warning that allegations of involvement in violence could undermine public confidence in women’s leadership.
They further urged political actors, their supporters and state institutions to uphold peace and ensure the 2027 electoral period reflects Kenya’s democratic values and aspirations.
Over the past week, leaders have come out to condemn the violence that claimed the lives of at least two people, while the state has assured the country of safety amid rising cases of goonism.
Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen praised the National Police Service for adopting an intelligence-led approach to prevent goonism by identifying and arresting people planning to cause violence before they reach political rallies.
Murkomen said the strategy allows security agencies to intervene early and prevent disruption of public meetings. “I want to commend the Inspector General of Police because he now has a new strategy to arrest and detain goons even before they get to meetings to cause violence,” he said.