Alarm raised over rise in politicians’ use of goons

Newly appointed Coadjutor Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Mombasa Dominic Kimengich has raised alarm over the growing use of goons in Kenyan politics.

The archbishop warned that their increasing presence ahead of next year’s General Election poses a serious threat to national security.

He expressed concern that, in many instances, these groups are being protected, creating a dangerous environment for ordinary citizens.

Archbishop Kimengich described the infiltration of security agencies by politically hired goons as a grave national concern.

“The country now risks sliding into anarchy if the government and the police do not dismantle these groups,” he said, accusing authorities of turning a blind eye as the gangs grow stronger.

He decried the impunity with which goons operate, at times even raiding churches to assault worshippers and questioned why security agencies have failed to intervene.

“People are acting with complete disregard for the law. We cannot allow such impunity to destroy this country,” he said.

The Archbishop stressed that politics should never descend into violence and that attacks on citizens reflect a failure of leadership, not political maturity.

“As citizens, we are left wondering why the government appears unconcerned, even when goons disrupt church services in the presence of police,” he added.

Archbishop Kimengich spoke from his office in Eldoret, where he is preparing to assume his new role in Mombasa following his appointment by Pope Leo XIV.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in Mombasa. While I have grown accustomed to Eldoret, I trust in God’s plan,” he said.

He will serve under Archbishop Martin Kivuva and succeed him upon retirement.

The Archbishop also expressed gratitude for his time in Eldoret, during which the Pope established the Diocese of Kapsabet, carved out of Eldoret.

He said prayers were ongoing for the appointment of a new bishop to continue pastoral work there.

“Our calling is like that of soldiers. We serve wherever we are sent,” he said.

Kimengich’s appointment, officially announced on January 28, 2026, marks a significant pastoral transition for one of Kenya’s metropolitan sees.

As Coadjutor Archbishop, he will assist in the governance of the Archdiocese of Mombasa and, in accordance with canon law, holds the right of succession, ensuring leadership continuity.

Born in 1961, Kimengich was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Nakuru on September 14, 1986.

He has served in several pastoral, administrative and formational roles, including Rector of St Joseph Junior Seminary in Molo, Vicar General of the Diocese of Nakuru, and Rector of St Matthias Mulumba Major Seminary in Tindinyo.

He also served at the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops in Nairobi, where he strengthened ecclesiastical tribunals and promoted sound church governance.

Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Lodwar and Titular Bishop of Tanaramusa in 2010, he became Bishop of Lodwar in 2011 and was transferred to Eldoret in 2019.

Throughout his ministry, Kimengich has championed peace and reconciliation in the North Rift, advocated for access to education for disadvantaged children and strengthened Catholic-sponsored institutions.

His appointment to Mombasa brings extensive pastoral experience and leadership to the historic Archdiocese, a key centre for evangelisation, interreligious dialogue and social justice along the Coast.

A replacement for Kimengich in Eldoret will be appointed by the Pope in due course.