Irungu Nyakera urges church to condemn thuggery
Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) Nairobi Patron Irungu Nyakera has thrown a jab at the growing trend of political thuggery in Kenya, calling out senior leaders and urging the church to speak boldly against what he described as a dangerous normalisation of youth violence.
In a statement on his X account on Sunday, August 31, 2025, Nyakera aimed at President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, accusing them of enabling and protecting goons to advance their political interests.
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“When Ruto and Sakaja use and protect goons to fight political battles, young people begin to see thuggery as trendy and powerful,” he wrote.
Nyakera expressed deep concern that such political tactics are not only corrupting Kenya’s youth but are also eroding the moral and civic fabric of the country. He cautioned that while thuggery may appear attractive or effective in the short term, it leads to long-term personal and societal damage.
“The truth is, it destroys their lives and slowly tears down the future of our country,” the X post read.
The DCP Patron made a passionate appeal to the church and religious leaders across the nation to take a firm stand. He called on the clergy to confront political leaders wherever they worship and hold them accountable for fostering a culture of violence and impunity.
“I pray the church will speak out boldly. Wherever leaders go to worship today, let them be confronted with the truth: stop making thuggery look normal, stop destroying the future of our children, and stop ruining Kenya,” Nyakera urged.
His remarks come amid rising concerns about the use of youth gangs and politically motivated violence in Nairobi and other urban centres. He said such practices undermine democracy and discourage meaningful youth engagement in politics and development.
Nyakera emphasised the urgency of the situation, stressing that time is running out to change course.
“We must act now to save our young people before it’s too late,” the statement read.
The DCP ally argued that when politicians are backed by the moral authority of the church, it could help steer the country toward a more peaceful and accountable political culture.
