People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, former Chief Justice David Maraga, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Siaya Governor James Orengo during a United Opposition press briefing on August 19, 2026. / HANDOUT
People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has called for a peaceful 2027 General Election, saying political competition should be based on ideas and ballots rather than intimidation and violence.
Speaking on behalf of the United Opposition during an address, Karua said political office should not shield anyone from responsibility for violence.
She also urged Kenyans to reject intimidation as the country heads towards the 2027 General Election.
“Those who organise violence should know that the passage of time does not erase responsibility. Political office does not provide immunity,” Karua said.
She said the political environment should allow citizens, journalists, police officers and political actors to exercise their constitutional rights without fear.
“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.
Karua also condemned restrictions on political activity, saying citizens should not be prevented from campaigning, assembling or voting because of violence.
“No citizen should be denied the right to campaign, assemble or vote because armed militia have been unleashed upon them,” she said.
Her remarks come amid reported incidents of political violence and disruption of political activities across 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, including incidents involving civilians, police officers, journalists, political actors and human rights defenders.
Among the incidents cited by the commission were a fatal attack during a political rally in Keumbu, Kisii County, an attack on a political convoy near Gilgil, disruptions of political activities in Kisumu and Nyahururu, and violence reported in Ol Kalou during the July by-election period.
KNCHR also cited an attack on journalists in Kimilili and reported deaths during politically related violence in Homa Bay on August 16.
The rights commission said political speeches and public utterances that encourage hostility or violence were also a concern, warning that inflammatory language could be acted upon by supporters.
Political violence has also been a recurring 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 violence was threatening the safety of voters and the credibility of the electoral process.
Karua said the 2027 election should instead be defined by democratic competition.
“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.
