Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has criticised Kenya’s security leadership over rising political violence and alleged police brutality, warning that failures by security agencies could undermine the country’s preparations for the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a Radio Generation interview on Monday, Maanzo said the security situation required urgent attention, particularly as political activity intensifies across the country.
His comments come a day after the Linda Mwananchi movement faced disruptions during its tour of Homa Bay County on Sunday, August 16.
The convoy encountered roadblocks, confrontations and tear gas as it moved through the county, while transport was disrupted after youths barricaded roads.
Several journalists covering the political activities were also attacked.
AFP correspondent Fred Ooko was reportedly assaulted and robbed of his camera and driving licence, while other journalists reported attacks and theft of equipment.
Police later said 14 people had been arrested in connection with incidents in Nyandiwa, Magunga and Oyugis.
Ten of those arrested in Nyandiwa and Magunga were reportedly found carrying crude weapons, including pangas and knives, according to police accounts.
Amnesty International Kenya condemned the violence, citing reports of attacks on journalists, disruption of media broadcasts, destruction of property, intimidation and unlawful road blockades.
The organisation also questioned the response of security agencies and called for independent investigations.
The legislator said one proposed response to alleged police abuses is to transfer officers who remain too long in one station, arguing that prolonged postings can create excessive familiarity between officers and local residents.
Turning to Homa Bay, Maanzo criticised the Interior Ministry over the handling of the violence and questioned whether political campaigns were receiving adequate security protection.
“I am very disappointed with the Permanent Secretary of Interior. He promises one thing but gives another. He's been accused, and I think people should go on to verify this accusation that he did works around the goons and is the one who is the master of this business,” he said.
Maanzo argued that politicians should be able to campaign freely across the country without facing violence because of their political affiliations or the regions they visit.
“If Governor Wanga and the company and Peter Kaluma and the rest who are being accused of hiring, you know, these people are throwing stones, then one day they are going to campaign in another area. They are going to come to Machakos. They are going to go to Mombasa. They are going to go to Nakuru. Are they expecting to be pelted with stones wherever they go?” he asked.
He called for heavy fines and electoral consequences against politicians found to be sponsoring violence.
“There must be very heavy fines for a politician who sponsors goons very heavy,” Maanzo said.
The Senator also called for stronger powers for the electoral commission to bar politicians linked to political violence from contesting elections, arguing that those found to have sponsored violence should face electoral sanctions and potentially be prevented from appearing on the ballot.
Maanzo’s remarks come as political mobilisation gathers momentum ahead of 2027, with the Homa Bay incidents adding to concerns over whether security agencies can protect political actors, journalists and members of the public while maintaining political neutrality.