President William Ruto has assured Kenyans that the 2027 General Election will be peaceful, declaring that "peace is not negotiable" as political temperatures continue to rise amid growing concerns over violence, disruption of rallies and the use of hired gangs ahead of the polls.
Speaking in Busia County on Sunday, the President said his administration would do everything possible to safeguard national unity and ensure that every Kenyan is free to participate in the democratic process without fear.
"I agree that peace is not negotiable. All of us, regardless of who we are, our beliefs or our political affiliations, must ensure that we have a peaceful nation," Ruto said.
He sought to reassure the country that the next election would not be marred by instability.
"I want to assure the people of Kenya that we will have peaceful elections next year. Elections come and go, but this nation must remain united, stable and strong. We will do everything possible to ensure Kenya remains stable," he said.
The President's remarks come as political activity intensifies across the country, with leaders from both the government and opposition raising concerns over alleged politically instigated goons disrupting rallies and public meetings.
Recent incidents have sparked calls for stronger action by security agencies to prevent violence and protect democratic freedoms ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Ruto said the country had learned hard lessons from recent incidents of criminality and insisted that those behind violence would no longer be tolerated.
"We experienced some challenges recently when crime escalated, and as a nation we could not agree on how to deal with it," he said, recalling that some people had argued those involved in violence should be spared because they were "our children."
"But we have now seen the damage that has resulted," he added.
According to the President, violent groups had evolved beyond demonstrations into organised criminal gangs that destroy businesses and threaten public safety.
"They have graduated from demonstrations to becoming goons who cause chaos everywhere. We have therefore agreed that all goons must be dealt with. No one will be allowed to engage in criminal activities or destroy peace in our country," he said.
At the same time, Ruto emphasized that every leader must be allowed to campaign freely and present their vision to voters.
"Every leader should be given an opportunity to present their views. Those with an agenda should explain it. Those with plans should outline them. Those with policies should present their policies," he said.
He added that even leaders without clear agendas should be allowed to address the public, provided political activities remain peaceful.
"Even those without plans, policies or an agenda should also be given a chance to speak. But above all, we must ensure that peace prevails."
The President concluded by urging Kenyans to remain focused on development and national cohesion, saying maintaining peace would remain a key priority for his administration.
"That is what we must do, and that will remain the position of the government that I lead. Let us continue focusing on development and strengthening the unity of our nation. That is our commitment," he said.