NAIROBI, Kenya — Douglas Kanja Kirocho has assured organisers of a planned political rally in Kisumu of full security, as authorities intensify a nationwide crackdown on criminal gangs allegedly deployed to disrupt public gatherings.
Appearing before the Senate Defence Committee, Kanja addressed rising concerns over organised violence in political spaces, following the recent attack on Godfrey Osotsi. He said police investigations had uncovered structured networks behind the incidents.
Condemning the attack, Kanja stated: “What happened to Osotsi is unfortunate I want to assure him and the people of Kenya that everybody who committed an offense there will have their time to answer before a court of law.”
He added: “The issue of goons is going to stop. We have investigated and seen where they come from, who funds them and who their grassroots organisers are. We are serious on that.”
The Inspector General confirmed that security agencies will provide adequate protection for the upcoming rally organised by the Linda Mwananchi faction, which is part of a broader nationwide mobilisation drive ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“The meeting will be fully secured, but I equally request the organisers to follow the law so that they also show responsibility to ensure there is peace. Those who want to attend will attend,” he said.
The political initiative is associated with a group of opposition-leaning leaders, including Edwin Sifuna, James Orengo and Babu Owino, who have been holding rallies across the country advocating governance reforms and political accountability.
The renewed assurances come against the backdrop of increasing reports of organised groups disrupting political meetings, an issue that has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, who accuse political actors of weaponising violence to suppress dissent.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen told lawmakers that several suspects linked to the Osotsi attack had fled the country shortly after the incident.
He said the Directorate of Criminal Investigations is working with international partners to track them down.
Meanwhile, three suspects linked to the April 8 incident have already been charged in court.
Also Read: IG Kanja condemns attacks on police stations, orders crackdown on goons
Eric Otieno, Vincent Odhiambo and Carlos Owiti appeared before Kisumu Resident Magistrate Daniel Chumba on April 17, where they denied charges of robbery with violence and theft.
Kenya has in recent months witnessed a pattern of politically linked disruptions at rallies, particularly as early alignments begin to form ahead of the 2027 elections.
Security analysts note that such incidents risk undermining democratic space if not addressed decisively.
Police leadership has increasingly emphasised intelligence-led operations to dismantle organised criminal networks, with authorities warning that both perpetrators and sponsors will face prosecution.
