Wahome Thuku: Bar politicians who support goons from contesting elections
Wahome Thuku, an Advocate of the High Court, has called for politicians who organise or support goons during political events to be barred from contesting elections, arguing that targeting those behind organised violence could help curb political goonism permanently. Thuku made the remarks during an interview with a local radio station on Tuesday, August 18, […]
Advocate Wahome Thuku has proposed barring politicians who organize or support violent goons from running in elections, stating that targeting those behind organized violence could help permanently curb political goonism. Speaking with a local radio station on August 18, 2026, Thuku suggested that denying politicians involved in such activities the chance to contest elections could be a deterrent.
He believed that political ambitions can drive organized violence, implying that separating politics from such behavior could be effective. Thuku also urged authorities to focus not only on those present during violent incidents but also on those who organize, mobilize, or fund groups involved in political clashes. He cited recent violence in Homa Bay as an example of how rival political groups can organize retaliatory attacks when their opponents hold events in different areas.
Thuku emphasized that such confrontations can create a cycle of retaliation, with groups waiting for opportunities to respond when political events enter areas controlled by their opponents. He highlighted the mindset of some political supporters who believe certain constituencies or regions belong exclusively to specific leaders.
"People think, 'This is mine, and you don't do this to me when I'm here,'" Thuku stated. His comments came as political activity intensifies in the lead-up to the 2027 General Election, drawing attention to political intolerance, organized violence, and the need for accountability among those who incite confrontations among supporters.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
