It is becoming increasingly difficult to answer the question: How did we get here?
On Friday, July 3, the Linda Mwananchi team took its popularization campaign to Kisii County. The delegation, led by Edwin Sifuna, received a warm welcome as large crowds turned up to attend the rallies, which began peacefully and enthusiastically.
However, as the convoy snaked through various towns on its way to Keumbu, ugly scenes unfolded. A group of suspected goons, believed by the opposition to have been sponsored by political interests, was seen pelting stones at vehicles belonging to the Linda Mwananchi team, causing panic and disrupting the procession.
What has sparked even greater public concern is footage circulating online that appears to show police officers standing by as the incident unfolded. Critics have accused the security agencies of failing to stop the attackers, with some alleging that officers effectively allowed the violence to continue. The police have not publicly explained their conduct in the incident.
The opposition has repeatedly accused the government of failing to decisively deal with politically sponsored gangs. President William Ruto has maintained that criminal gangs and goons will be dealt with firmly whenever they break the law.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has also faced criticism over his remarks on similar incidents. In previous responses, he dismissed claims that the government protects goons, at one point suggesting that some of the individuals being referred to were merely watchmen protecting businesses – a statement that drew sharp criticism from opponents.
The latest incident in Kisii is likely to renew debate over political tolerance, the role of security agencies during political events, and whether enough is being done to curb violence ahead of future political activities.