President William Ruto has declared that the government will step up efforts to eliminate goonism, saying Kenya cannot allow criminal groups to threaten businesses, politics or the safety of its people.
Speaking on Thursday at State House, Nairobi, during a meeting with artisans from the capital, the President said the country had reached a common position that organised gangs linked to violence and public disorder must be brought to an end.
He said every Kenyan deserves the freedom to work, invest and take part in political activities without fear or intimidation.
"These goons, there are people who have been sympathetic to them. We are all now in agreement that we will end goonism in the country," the President said.
Ruto assured Kenyans that the government would continue pursuing those behind acts of violence, saying the same determination used to deal with terrorism and cattle rustling would now be directed at criminal gangs.
"We are going to have a secure country and all Kenyans will run their businesses without fear. The same way we dealt with terrorists and cattle rustlers is the same way we will deal with goons," Ruto said.
He said restoring peace and order remained a key priority, adding that no one should be prevented from earning a living or participating in politics because of violence.
"All Kenyans will be free to do their business and do politics without interference of goons," he said.
President William interacts with artisans at State House, Nairobi on July 23, 2026. PHOTO/PCS
The President also expressed confidence in the National Police Service, saying officers were fully capable of carrying out their constitutional duty of protecting lives and property.
"I have confidence in the National Police Service that they will deliver in their mandate to make sure that our country is secure," he said.
Ruto pointed to what he described as the government's success in tackling terrorism and banditry, saying the same approach would be applied against criminal groups involved in violence.
"Those terrorists who made life difficult for us, we annihilated them. Bandits and cattle rustlers are not anymore. Those who burnt businesses during demonstrations are no more also," he said.
His remarks come at a time when concern has continued to grow over organised groups accused of disrupting political meetings, public protests and even official events. The groups have been blamed for attacking perceived opponents, causing destruction and creating fear among members of the public.
The growing presence of such gangs has drawn criticism from political leaders, civil society organisations and human rights groups, who have called for impartial investigations and action against those responsible for organising or financing political violence.
Security experts have also warned that the continued use of hired gangs during political activities weakens democratic institutions, reduces public confidence in the electoral process and discourages peaceful political participation.