The ball is in the IG’s court as opposition demands action on police violence
- Created by AVDelta News Reporter
Former DP Rigathi Gachagua described the incidents as part of a “culture of impunity and goonism” that threatens Kenya’s democracy.
Main opposition leaders in Kenya on Friday visited the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to demand accountability over alleged police brutality and attacks on dissenting voices.
They warned that Kenya cannot tolerate impunity and vowed to escalate the matter if responsible officers are not held to account.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua described the incidents as part of a “culture of impunity and goonism” that threatens Kenya’s democracy.
He was joined by Senior Counsel and former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, Justin Muturi, and Cleophas Malala in presenting a formal petition to the IG.
“We cannot live in a nation of impunity in a country our forefathers founded,” Mr Gachagua said.
“Injustice to any Kenyan, irrespective of creed, belief, tribe or colour, is a threat to our progressive Constitution.”
The opposition documented over 23 violent incidents since November 2024, targeting leaders and their supporters across the country.
Funerals, prayer meetings, church services, political convoys, party events, and by-elections have been disrupted by alleged attacks involving goons and police officers, who used teargas, live ammunition, and arson.
“Several Kenyans have lost their lives to goons and police, yet no action seems to be taken despite the perpetrators being known,” Mr Gachagua said.
Wiper Patriotic Front Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka emphasised the legal and constitutional dimensions of the petition, warning that the police service must remain impartial.
“The Constitution protects every Kenyan’s right to safety and assembly. What we witnessed is a blatant violation of those rights,” he said.
The leaders singled out the January 26, 2026, attack at Witima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County as the most egregious.
Police officers and hired thugs allegedly teargassed a congregation, torched vehicles, and injured women, children, and clergy. Mr Gachagua was the alleged target.
“This was not law enforcement. It was state-sanctioned criminality,” the statement read.
Opposition leaders have given the Inspector General until February 16, 2026, to ensure those responsible are arrested and held accountable.
“We cannot and will not accept a police service weaponised to intimidate or attack elected leaders,” Mr Gachagua said.
“Kenyans must not live in fear of officers sworn to protect them.”
They warned that failure to act would force them to escalate the matter to the international community and development partners.
People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua said the petition documents 22 incidents in which police officers allegedly acted in concert with hired goons.
“These acts betray the sacrifices of our forefathers and violate the 2010 Constitution,” she said.
“Kenya belongs to its people, not to those who temporarily hold authority.”
The opposition confirmed they plan to return to Othaya this weekend, insisting they will not retreat.
“Kenya is bigger than any one of us,” Mr Gachagua said.
“We shall not bow.”
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