Ruto vows to deal with goons as ICC calls grow over Kenya’s political violence

President William Ruto has pledged to address political goons amid rising tensions over violent incidents surrounding political rallies and opposition figures leading up to the 2027 general election. Speaking at a rally in Emurua Dikkir on August 26th, 2026, Ruto emphasized peace and stability, warning against hostility, chaos, and war.

He assured Kenyans of their right to live together in harmony. Ruto's remarks come as opposition leaders and civil society groups urge the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate accusations of organized political violence in Kenya. The government has dismissed these calls, insisting that Kenyan authorities are capable of investigating and prosecuting domestic crimes.

Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi argued that Kenya should strengthen its own institutions rather than "internationalise" criminal investigations. Mudavadi also highlighted Ruto's previous willingness to face the ICC, asserting the president's respect for the rule of law. The renewed ICC conversation follows recent confrontations that opposition leaders claim cannot be dismissed as isolated clashes.

The United Opposition has asked the ICC prosecutor to consider incidents involving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, Linda Mwananchi activities in Homa Bay, and a confrontation in Keumbu, Kisii. People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua emphasized the need for international attention to the escalating incidents of political violence.

If evidence emerges of widespread or systematic attacks against civilians being organized, financed, directed, or tolerated by people in authority, the ICC may consider investigating those responsible, including Ruto. Human rights organizations have written to the ICC prosecutor, citing political intolerance, organized violence, ethnic mobilization, and weak accountability as factors that could increase the risk of serious rights violations.

The International Commission of Jurists-Kenya and the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project have also called for increased regional and international monitoring of political tensions and gang mobilization ahead of the 2027 polls. Gachagua has accused the government of failing to act against goons, dismissing Ruto's anti-goon directives as political rhetoric.

The ICC debate highlights Kenya's prior ICC experience following the 2007-08 post-election violence, adding weight to the controversy as political tensions rise ahead of the 2027 election.