NAROK, Kenya — President William Ruto has pledged to tackle political goonism and called for peace and unity during a development tour of Emurua Dikirr in Narok County.
Ruto said his administration would not tolerate violence, hostility or chaos, urging residents to work together to create an environment conducive to development.
“We want peace in this area. We want unity among the people here so that we can plan and pursue development together. We do not want hostility, conflict or chaos,” Ruto said.
The President also addressed concerns over individuals allegedly involved in violence, assuring residents that the government would take action against those disrupting peace.
“As for the issue of goons, we will deal with it. We are saying we want peace so that we can move forward together,” he said.
Ruto speaks during Emurua Dikirr tour
Ruto made the remarks while touring development projects in Emurua Dikirr, where he inspected the Emurua Dikirr Modern Market and laid the foundation stone for the Boma Yangu Transmara East KMTC Students’ Village.
He said peace and unity were essential for residents to benefit from government development programmes and other economic opportunities.
The President also called on residents to reject confrontation and ensure that political differences do not undermine development in the region.
His remarks come as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election, with parties and political leaders beginning to mobilise support across the country.
Concerns over political violence
The issue of political violence has increasingly featured in public debate as the country approaches the next election.
Political rallies, church services and other public gatherings have in some cases been disrupted by groups of youths, prompting renewed concerns over the use of organised gangs in political activities.
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The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) warned in July that political intolerance and the use of hired gangs posed a threat to peaceful elections.
The commission has also reminded political parties and candidates that they are prohibited from engaging in, encouraging or facilitating violence under the Elections Act and the Electoral Code of Conduct.
Ruto calls for calm ahead of 2027
The President’s remarks in Emurua Dikirr place peace and political stability among the priorities his administration says it wants to protect as Kenya heads towards the 2027 polls.
Ruto said residents should be able to move freely and participate in political and economic activities without fear.
The call comes amid growing competition among political formations seeking to consolidate support ahead of the presidential and other elections scheduled for 2027.
With political mobilisation expected to intensify in the coming months, the government’s response to political violence and the conduct of political actors is likely to remain a major issue in the run-up to the elections.
For Emurua Dikirr residents, Ruto said, the immediate priority should remain maintaining peace and creating conditions that allow development projects to progress.
