Sicily Kariuki: I knew Ruto and Gachagua would not work together to the end

Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo argues that Kenyans have the power to address goonism, alleged abductions, and insecurity through the 2027 General Election, urging voters to hold President William Ruto's government accountable. During an interview on a local TV station, Maanzo stated that the political class has contributed to the rise of goonism by empowering supporters to intimidate political opponents and citizens.

He emphasized that the individuals involved in abductions are following a different set of rules than goons who blatantly disregard the law.

The senator accused the Ruto administration of allowing the security situation to worsen and placed the responsibility for the country's security system on the President and senior officials in the Interior Ministry. Maanzo noted that the 2027 election offers Kenyans a tool to demand accountability from the current government, suggesting that the voter's card is the "weapon" needed to combat these issues.

Concerns over political violence and goonism have grown ahead of the 2027 election, with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) citing a lack of evidence as a hindrance in prosecuting those involved in political violence. Meanwhile, the National Police Service pledged neutrality ahead of the election, promising to protect all participants in the electoral process irrespective of political affiliation.

In response to the abductions, Maanzo proposed that Parliament could provide a crucial check on security agencies by summoning officials to explain cases of missing or allegedly abducted Kenyans. He also highlighted the courts as an avenue for families seeking answers when people disappear or are detained outside normal legal procedures. Maanzo cited a specific case where a person was taken in a vehicle with civilian number plates, only for authorities to later claim they had picked up the wrong individual.

For Maanzo, the solution lies in returning to the people, who must provide a solution through the 2027 election. He urged eligible Kenyans to register as voters and use the ballot as their weapon to fight against the current political leadership. Maanzo also called on journalists and the public to provide credible information about alleged abductors and those behind political violence, emphasizing that investigative reporting could help expose wrongdoing.

His remarks come as election stakeholders prepare for the 2027 polls, with growing concern over political violence, hate speech, propaganda, and organized groups attempting to disrupt political activities.