Wamalwa warns Kenya could return to ICC over rising political violence

Former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa has cautioned that Kenya could face restitution to the International Criminal Court (ICC) if the escalating political violence and goonism are not tackled prior to the 2027 General Election. During an interview on a local television channel on August 20, 2026, Wamalwa drew a parallel between the current political tensions and the 2007-2008 post-election crisis, which triggered the ICC's investigation.

He emphasized that history ought to serve as a stern warning against allowing political violence to escalate. Wamalwa recalled his own experience at the ICC as traumatic, and warned that returning to the court would be unfortunate for Kenya. Recent occurrences of political violence, such as disturbances at political rallies and assaults on places of worship, indicate a growing issue that demands immediate action.

Wamalwa stressed that violence should not be viewed exclusively as a problem for either the government or the opposition, asserting that both entities could face repercussions. He likened the escalating political violence to a tiger that would eventually turn against the one riding it, warning that Kenya was currently "riding on the back of the tiger."

Wamalwa advocated for a national consultative forum involving political leaders, religious institutions, civil society, and other stakeholders to devise a collective strategy for curbing electoral violence. Instead of assigning blame solely on political adversaries, he urged the focus to be on discovering a joint solution to the problem.

Wamalwa also advocated for security personnel to be held answerable for their conduct or inaction during instances of political violence. He pointed out that opposition leaders had brought this issue to the attention of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, warning that police officers could face legal consequences if they allowed themselves to be manipulated for political gains.

"We told him that, at the end of the day, he shall be held accountable," Wamalwa asserted. He concluded by cautioning that criminal liability for alleged misconduct might persist beyond shifts in government, urging the police leadership to abide by the law. Wamalwa emphasized that preventing political violence before the 2027 elections would necessitate cooperation from both political leaders and security agencies, rather than ongoing accusations.