Laikipia woman representative Jane Kagiri has come out to complain about the increasing level of political violence and goonism, claiming that the trend is tainting the democratic image of Kenya and hampering peaceful political participation.

Speaking in an interview with a local radio station on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Kagiri has termed the scenario a matter of serious concern and pity, and he stated that violence should not be a part of politics and all leaders should condemn it, irrespective of political affiliation.

“It’s becoming a very worrying trend and a very unfortunate one. I don’t believe in violence in politics…so I am really hoping an end comes to this goonism because it is not good and it is even affecting our image as a country,” Kagiri said.

Kagiri called on the political leaders, supporters, and security agencies to strongly act to contain the increasing cases of hired gangs that were disrupting political gatherings and intimidating opponents.

Kagiri calls for peaceful political competition

The woman representative urged it to be responsible to foster peaceful political competition, and leadership must be rooted in respect, tolerance and rule of law.

Her comments contribute to the rising concern among leaders and civil society groups regarding the cases of political intolerance, in the midst of the country still undergoing increased political activity.

With the calls of calm mounting, Kagiri reiterated her resolve to promote peaceful politics.

Wake of political goonism

The lawmaker’s comments come as more people are calling for an end to political goonism, which has been seen in recent politically charged rallies across the country. This includes disruptions during United Opposition meetings, like the recent one in Kikuyu Constituency, where fights between rival political groups sparked public anger and raised questions about the safety of political gatherings.

Among other issues, the incident has escalated the national attention to the increasing number of organised disruptive actions and rallies, making the issue a national debate and increasing the pressure on police to take measures to eliminate political violence in all its manifestations.