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Eric Omondi: I have witnessed the culture of goonism firsthand
09th July, 2026 06:56 AM
Eric Omondi has spoken out against what he described as the growing culture of goonism in Kenya, saying his repeated arrests have given him firsthand experience of the problem.
Speaking in a candid interview on Thursday, July 9, 2026, Omondi claimed he had been arrested 19 times since August 2023, adding that his encounters with law enforcement had exposed him to how criminal gangs operate.
“Since August 2023, I have been arrested 19 times. I have witnessed the culture of goonism firsthand,” Omondi claimed.
According to Omondi, Kenya is becoming increasingly chaotic as the country moves closer to the next general election, warning that violence linked to demonstrations could worsen if urgent measures are not taken.
He claimed that the situation had deteriorated over the past few years, stating that organised groups had increasingly been involved in disrupting peaceful protests.
Omondi further added that he had witnessed instances where police officers protected suspected goons while they attacked demonstrators taking part in peaceful protests.
“Kenya is turning chaotic at the wrong time because it is getting worse as we go to the elections,” he added.
“We have seen police protecting these goons while they attack peaceful protesters.”
Omondi’s appeals to youths
The comedian also appealed to young Kenyans not to allow themselves to be recruited into violent groups in exchange for small amounts of money.
Addressing the youth directly, Omondi warned that accepting as little as Ksh200 to participate in violence could have devastating consequences for them and their families.
He said many young people risk losing their lives while those who recruit them often face no consequences.
“I want to tell the young people, stop allowing yourself to be used because of Ksh 200; you will die, I pray not. Leave your young wife, children and grieved mother or father, and these people will move on,” Omondi stated.
Omondi argued that unemployment remains the root cause of the problem, saying many young people become vulnerable to manipulation because they lack stable sources of income.
According to him, addressing youth unemployment would significantly reduce the number of young people willing to engage in politically motivated violence or criminal activities.
“The problem stems from unemployment,” he added.
His remarks come amid continued national debate over the use of goons during demonstrations and political rallies.
