NAIROBI, Kenya- Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina has condemned the attack on Siaya Governor James Orengo during political activities in Migori County, warning that Kenya risks heading down a dangerous path if political violence continues to grow.
Maina said political violence must be condemned regardless of the political side involved, arguing that the country cannot allow a culture of intimidation to take root ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“We must all condemn in the strongest terms political violence. This culture we are breeding is a dangerous path for this country,” Maina said.
Her remarks followed an incident in Migori on Saturday, August 29, when a political engagement involving Orengo and the Linda Mwananchi movement was disrupted by tear gas.
Orengo was forced to retreat into his vehicle as chaos erupted, while his vehicle was later reported to have been torched in Awendo.
Orengo subsequently alleged that live bullets had been fired at his vehicle before it was set ablaze. He described the incident as an attempt to intimidate him and vowed to continue participating in political activities.
Maina said every Kenyan has the right to travel to any part of the country and campaign for their political agenda without fear of attack.
“Everyone has the right and freedom to traverse any part of this country as they sell their agenda,” she said.
The Kirinyaga MP further pledged that she would not tolerate political violence in her county, saying leaders have a responsibility to discourage confrontational politics as the country moves towards the next election.
“I further reiterate that as a leader, I will not condone any political violence in Kirinyaga County,” Maina said.
She also cited remarks by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, the leader of the Democratic Congress Party (DCP), saying the party would not accommodate candidates who perpetuate violence.
Her comments come against the backdrop of growing political activity ahead of the August 10, 2027 General Election, with opposition movements including Linda Mwananchi stepping up grassroots mobilisation across the country.
The attack on Orengo has renewed concerns about political violence, coming less than two weeks after violent disruptions during Linda Mwananchi activities in Homa Bay.
Maina has previously called for investigations into violence targeting Linda Mwananchi supporters, urging security and cohesion agencies to take action against those responsible.
Her latest statement places her among leaders calling for political competition to be conducted without intimidation, attacks or attempts to prevent opponents from accessing parts of the country.
As political campaigns gather momentum, Maina’s warning underscores growing concerns that incidents of violence could escalate if leaders and security agencies fail to act against perpetrators.
