People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has challenged political leaders and Kenyans to reject violence and intimidation ahead of the 2027 General Election, saying the contest should be decided through ideas and the ballot rather than threats, armed groups or political force.
Speaking on behalf of the United Opposition, Karua said holding political office should not protect anyone from accountability for violence, warning those involved in organising attacks that they would remain responsible for their actions.
“Those who organise violence should know that the passage of time does not erase responsibility. Political office does not provide immunity,” Karua said.
She called for a political environment where citizens and those involved in the electoral process can exercise their constitutional rights without fear.
Karua said citizens should be free to participate in politics, while journalists should be able to cover political events and police officers should be allowed to perform their duties without being placed under political pressure.
“No Kenyan should lose life, their liberty or their property because of politics. No journalist should fear death for carrying a camera. No police officer should be forced to choose between the Constitution and political interests,” she said.
She also criticised restrictions on political activities, saying violence should not be used to prevent citizens from campaigning, holding meetings or taking part in elections.
“No citizen should be denied the right to campaign, assemble or vote because armed militia have been unleashed upon them,” she said.
Karua's remarks come against a backdrop of reported political violence and disruptions of political activities in different parts of the country in recent months.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights said on Tuesday that it had documented a pattern of political intolerance, violence and intimidation between June and August 2026.
The commission said the incidents had affected civilians, police officers, journalists, political actors and human rights defenders.
Among the cases recorded by KNCHR was a fatal attack during a political rally in Keumbu, Kisii County, as well as an attack on a political convoy near Gilgil.
The commission also reported disruptions of political activities in Kisumu and Nyahururu, alongside violence in Ol Kalou during the July by-election period.
KNCHR further cited an attack on journalists in Kimilili and deaths linked to political violence in Homa Bay on August 16.
The rights body also raised concern over political speeches and public statements that encourage hostility or violence, warning that inflammatory remarks could influence supporters to engage in attacks.
Political violence has also remained a concern in Homa Bay, where local leaders and administrators have previously called for an end to the use of youths to disrupt political gatherings.
During the Ol Kalou by-election campaign period in July, KNCHR reported cases of alleged hired gangs, voter intimidation, destruction of campaign materials and other electoral offences.
The commission warned that such incidents were putting voters at risk and threatening the credibility of the electoral process.
Karua said the country should instead prepare for an election where political parties and candidates compete through policies and democratic means.
“The 2027 election must be a contest of ideas, not intimidation; a contest of ballots, not bullets; a contest of democracy, not violence,” she said.