Karungo calls on Ruto to resign over rising political violence and goonism

Nairobi, Kenya - Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa has urged President William Ruto to step down, claiming his government is unable to curb political violence, goonism, and insecurity as tensions grow around political rallies. During a church service on Sunday in Gatundu South, Kiambu County, Karungo criticized the administration's handling of recent violent incidents aimed at political figures and their supporters.

The senator's call came amid heightened tensions in Homa Bay, where a planned Linda Mwananchi political rally saw reports of a hotel attack, road blockades, and threats from rival political groups to disrupt the event. Karungo blamed the government for failing to guarantee Kenyans the freedom to travel and engage in political activities without fear of violence.

"We want to tell you, Honourable William Ruto, that if you have failed to repair this country, you do not have to wait until 2027," Karungo stated. "You do not have to wait if you have failed to restore respect and security in this country, because everyone must be able to travel and go wherever they want." The remarks followed an attack on the Homa Bay Tourist Hotel on Saturday night, where youths allegedly vandalized the property and stole unknown items.

Police were alerted and arrived at the scene, finding all hotel belongings destroyed and stolen. The motive behind the attack and the perpetrators' identities remain unknown. On Sunday morning, reports emerged that roads leading into and out of Homa Bay had been barricaded with stones, hindering access to the Linda Mwananchi rally.

Karungo condemned the use of goons to intimidate political opponents, linking the Homa Bay events to a prior incident in Nakuru, where he said political actors were also attacked. He emphasized the government's responsibility to ensure Kenyans can move freely and participate in politics without intimidation. "Everyone must be able to travel and go wherever they want," Karungo reiterated.

The Interior Principal Secretary, Raymond Omollo, assured that the government would provide security for political gatherings, regardless of the organizers' affiliations, as long as the law was respected. However, he cautioned against breaking the law, stressing that the right to political assembly must be exercised peacefully. The police have also warned politicians, rally organizers, and others against incitement, provocation, and actions that may breach the peace, following the arrest of 15 suspects allegedly plotting to disrupt political activities.