President William Ruto has pledged to tackle goonism as he called for peace and unity during his development tour of Emurua Dikirr, Narok County.
Ruto said his administration would not tolerate violence or chaos, urging residents to work together to promote development in the area.
“We want peace in this area. We want unity among the people here so that we can plan and pursue development together. We do not want hostility, conflict or chaos,” Ruto said.
He said the government would deal with individuals involved in acts of violence, assuring residents that they should be able to move freely without fear.
“As for the issue of goons, we will deal with it. We are saying we want peace so that we can move forward together,” he said.
Ruto spoke during his tour of Emurua Dikirr, where he inspected the Emurua Dikirr Modern Market and laid the foundation stone for the Boma Yangu Transmara East KMTC Students’ Village.
The President called on residents to maintain peace and unity, saying this would create an environment conducive to development.
His remarks come amid heightened political activity in the country ahead of the 2027 General Election, with leaders repeatedly calling for peaceful political engagement and warning against violence.
The rising incidents of political violence and the growing use of hired goons are raising fears that the trend could escalate as the country approaches the polls.
The incidents have included disruptions of political rallies, church services and other public gatherings.
In July, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) warned that political intolerance and the use of hired gangs posed a threat to peaceful elections.
The commission said candidates and political parties are prohibited from engaging in or encouraging violence under Section 67 of the Elections Act and the Electoral Code of Conduct.
