Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has slammed the rising cases of political goonism in the country, which he says are thriving because the powers of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja have been compromised.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Kameme TV on Monday, May 11, 2026, Kalonzo, while commenting on the growing wave of violence and disruption during political gatherings, said that the United Opposition had already raised the matter of goons attacking their political gatherings directly with the Inspector General.

He has said that nothing much has been done since, suggesting that he may not be fully in control of operations within the National Police Service.

“We discussed the issue of political goonism with the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, who we understand may not have the powers. The work is done by his deputies without his knowledge,” Kalonzo said.

The former vice president has also said that the opposition sympathises with the challenges that the police boss is facing, but the law still puts the full responsibility on the office of the Inspector General.

“We understand that he has a problem. He may not have the knowledge of the plans, but the law says that the person bearing the responsibility is the IG, and that is why the United Opposition went to his office,” he added.

Threat to democracy

Kalonzo has further warned that the continued use of goons in politics was dangerous and could reverse the country’s democratic gains if not addressed urgently.

According to the opposition leader, the trend is retrogressive and risks dragging the country backwards at a time when Kenyans expect peaceful political engagement and respect for constitutional freedoms ahead of the 2027 general elections.

His comments come amid growing concerns over violent clashes, disruption of political meetings and alleged intimidation by organised groups during political activities across the country.

The United Opposition has been pressuring security agencies to act on the sponsors of political violence, stating that law enforcement officers should remain neutral and uphold the rule of law irrespective of political affiliation.