Ndegwa Njiru sounds alarm over escalating political violence
Lawyer and human rights activist Ndegwa Njiru has issued a stern warning against the growing trend of political violence, accusing the state of fostering chaos through police brutality and pre-election intimidation tactics.
His remarks follow violent attacks on opposition supporters during a by-election campaign event on Sunday, July 27, 2025, raising fresh concerns about the country’s political climate as it heads toward the 2027 general elections.
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“Fellow patriots at heart, what is this about William Ruto and a high affinity for bloodshed?” Ndegwa posed on his X account on Monday, July 28, 2025.
Ndegwa linked the violence to what he called a pattern of state-sponsored aggression against opposition forces.
The by-elections, seen as a test run for the 2027 national vote, have been marred by clashes, intimidation, and what observers describe as disproportionate use of force by police. Ndegwa cautioned that unless these acts of violence are curbed early, the nation risks sliding into deeper turmoil.
“This pre-election violence, if not checked and measures taken to stop it, will in 2027 lead to post-election violence. This police brutality is precipitating serious chaos,” Ndegwa warned.
Political climate
His comments also come amid growing alarm from civil society and international observers over the deteriorating political environment in some regions. Sunday’s attacks targeted opposition leaders and their supporters during a campaign rally, prompting condemnation from human rights groups and renewed calls for electoral reforms.
Ndegwa tapped into a deepening public unease over political intolerance, especially within contexts where security forces are accused of partiality. He urged urgent intervention by both national and international institutions to prevent a recurrence of the 2007-2008 post-election violence that left more than 1,000 people dead and hundreds of thousands displaced.
“We must learn from our history. We cannot afford to allow our democracy to be hijacked by forces that thrive on fear, intimidation, and bloodshed,” he added.
As political temperatures rise ahead of 2027, Ndegwa called on Kenyans to remain vigilant and peaceful while demanding accountability from their leaders and law enforcement.
The opposition has since vowed to press on with its campaigns, saying no amount of intimidation will derail its democratic mission.
