Jubilee presidential flagbearer Fred Matiang’i has called for a national conversation to address what he described as rising political violence, goonism and the growing threat of anarchy in Kenya.
Speaking at a press conference at Jubilee Party offices in Nairobi, Matiang’i said the country had reached a critical point that required political leaders and other stakeholders to come together and agree on how to restore peace and order.
“We need conversations, consult and plan with one another and take a course that is lawful and see how we will address the rise of political violence,” Matiang’i said.
He warned that Kenya could be heading towards a dangerous situation if political violence and organised attacks were allowed to continue unchecked.
“I have warned, we have begun the final descent to anarchy in this country. The question is, what are we going to do as a people?” he posed.
Matiang’i said his proposal was for political leaders, religious groups, civil society and other stakeholders to sit down and agree on a common course of action.
“My suggestion is we are going to sit down, consult all actors, and choose the path we are going to follow,” he said.
His remarks came after violence and clashes erupted in Homa Bay County during Linda Mwananchi Movement rallies, with incidents reported in Homa Bay Town and along roads leading to rally venues.
The clashes involved road blockades, destruction of property, a vehicle that was set on fire and physical attacks on journalists and residents. Several people were injured while 17 suspects were arrested in connection with the violence.
Main access roads and highways leading into Homa Bay Town were reportedly blocked using stones, logs and burning debris, disrupting movement in the town.
Youths also stormed the Homa Bay Tourist Hotel, where windows were shattered and property damaged, while valuables were reportedly stolen.
Matiang’i said the violence was beyond the point where political leaders could simply issue condemnations after every incident.
“We are not going to say we condemn what happened yesterday. We are beyond condemning. We are not dealing with a normal situation in the country,” he said.
He warned that continued political violence could eventually provoke a public reaction that would become difficult for the government to control.
“When people begin to respond to these situations, the government will not be able to control them. When people rise up against political violence, it is going to be completely uncontrollable,” he warned.
The former Interior Cabinet Secretary described the current situation as unprecedented, urging leaders to take the warnings seriously.
