NAIROBI, Kenya — The principals of the United Opposition have intensified their criticism of what they describe as the growing use of hired goons to disrupt church services and political rallies, warning that Kenya risks sliding into lawlessness if constitutional freedoms are not protected.
Speaking during a Sunday service at PCEA Utawala Parish in Embakasi East, Nairobi County, opposition leaders led by Rigathi Gachagua said the rights to worship and assemble are guaranteed under the Constitution and must not be curtailed for political expediency.
Gachagua, who heads the DCP Party, accused the government of failing to arrest individuals allegedly responsible for the chaos witnessed at recent public gatherings.
“Every Kenyan has fundamental rights that no one should infringe upon,” he said, insisting that the disruption of church services and rallies undermines democracy and national unity.
DAP-K Party leader Eugene Wamalwa condemned what he termed the normalization of violence at public events. He claimed that goons had, until recently, taken control of opposition meetings, resulting in the deaths of two people.
“We cannot have a country where citizens are attacked for attending rallies or worshipping,” Wamalwa said, calling for swift accountability from security agencies.
A secure nation is a stable nation.
Jubilee Party leader Fred Matiang’i turned his criticism directly to President William Ruto, accusing him of misreading the national mood and allegedly deploying police to suppress dissent.
“The country is heading in the wrong direction,” Matiang’i said, urging the President to listen to Kenyans and restore public confidence in state institutions.
On her part, People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua emphasized the need for order and adherence to the rule of law. She warned that impunity, whether by political actors or security agencies, erodes the foundations of constitutional governance.
“We must return to respecting institutions and the law. That is the only way to safeguard our democracy,” Karua said.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka challenged the Church to speak out against what he termed government excesses. He accused the Inspector General of Police of abdicating his constitutional responsibilities to the Interior Cabinet Secretary, raising concerns about the independence of the police service.
Kalonzo further warned that rising public frustration, particularly among young people, could trigger unrest if grievances are not addressed.
“Kenya’s youth are impatient. If leaders do not listen, they may ignite a movement that no one can control,” he cautioned.
The opposition leaders maintained that their calls are not meant to inflame tensions but to demand accountability and protect constitutional freedoms.
Their remarks come amid heightened political activity and a series of confrontations at rallies across the country, deepening the debate over security, freedom of expression, and the role of the police in managing public order.
As the political temperature rises, the battle lines appear drawn — between a government insisting it is maintaining order and an opposition warning that democracy itself is under strain.
