With exactly one year before the 2027 General Elections, political temperatures are already rising, with residents expressing concern over increasing cases of political intolerance, hate speech and goonism across the country.
Ordinary Kenyans and businessmen say the incidents have raised questions about the country’s preparedness for peaceful and credible elections, with some expressing concern over whether the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) will be able to deliver an election that meets the expectations of Kenyans.
They have called on political leaders and their supporters to embrace tolerance, shun inflammatory rhetoric, and allow Kenyans to freely exercise their democratic right to choose leaders of their choice.
The residents have further urged political leaders to moderate their language during campaigns and avoid statements that could fuel ethnic divisions, hatred, or violence.
Upya Party Secretary-General, Joe Kaguchia urged Kenyans to put the country’s interests ahead of party affiliations as the country prepares for the August 2027 polls.
“Let us forget the parties we are affiliated with and work towards a common goal. That way, we will be able to bring into power leaders who will serve us. Let us stop chest-thumping at this time,” said Kaguchia.
He said Kenya’s multiparty democracy should not be a source of division, noting that political parties should be able to work together for the benefit of the country.
“We need to embrace multiparty democracy where many parties can work together as a team. Our political differences should not divide Kenyans or threaten the peace of the country,” he said.
Meanwhile, businessman George Gathuru said he was concerned by incidents of political goonism witnessed in some parts of the country, warning that such acts could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
“I am worried that IEBC may not be able to deliver credible polls if we continue witnessing cases of goonism and intimidation. The police should be left to do their work without interference from the political class,” said Gathuru.
He called for the protection of voters’ freedom to make independent choices, saying security agencies should not be used to settle political scores.
“Kenyans should be allowed to choose the government they want without being coerced. The police should also not be used to settle political scores. Lives have been lost before, and we need not repeat the mistakes of the past,” he said.
Businessman Mburu Ngugi observed that the growing interest of young people in politics was a positive development but warned that intimidation and violence could undermine their participation in democratic processes.
“We are living in interesting times where many young people are venturing into politics. This is a good thing because they are more aware and willing to participate. However, threats and intimidation can derail the freedoms enjoyed in a democratic nation,” said Ngugi.
He urged security agencies to contain cases of violence and political goonism ahead of the elections, saying all Kenyans should be allowed to participate in the political process without fear.
“My call to the government, through the security agencies, is to contain acts of violence and goonism as we head to the polls. IEBC must also prove its credibility by conducting elections in a fair, transparent, and credible manner,” he said.
The 2027 General Elections are scheduled for August 2027, with political parties and aspirants expected to intensify their mobilization and campaigns as the country moves closer to the polls.
By Florence Kinyua
