Matiang’i condemns attack on 31-year-old political violence victim in Kisii
By Faith Lagat, April 25, 2026Jubilee Deputy Party Leader and 2027 presidential flagbearer Fred Matiang’i has condemned the attack on a 31-year-old man in Kisii County, describing it as an act of political violence.
Matiang’i visited Obed Mogunda Somoni at Chiron Hospital, where he is receiving specialised orthopaedic treatment after being transferred from Hema Hospital, where he had been admitted for a week.
In a post shared on his official X account, Matiang’i stated, “I visited Obed Mogunda Somoni, a 31-year-old victim of political violence, at Chiron Hospital in Kisii County. He continues to receive specialised orthopedic care… I wish him strength and a full recovery,” Matiang’i posted on X dated April 25, 2026.
Matiang’i strongly condemned the attack, stating that Kenya cannot claim to be a democratic nation while young people are beaten and maimed for holding differing views. He said the country must ensure that every citizen is able to speak freely without fear and called for the restoration of the rule of law.
He further urged the protection of young people and the need to address and fix what he described as broken systems in the country.
“I strongly condemn this cowardly act. We cannot call ourselves a democratic nation when our youth are beaten and maimed for holding views that differ. Kenya must be a country where every citizen can speak freely without fear. We must restore the rule of law, protect our youth, and fix these broken systems.”
Condition of victim and medical care
Somoni is reported to be receiving ongoing orthopedic care following injuries sustained in the attack. He had earlier been admitted at Hema Hospital for initial treatment before being referred to Chiron Hospital for specialised care.
Medical updates indicate that he continues to undergo treatment while recovering from injuries sustained during the incident. The case has drawn attention amid wider concerns over incidents linked to political intolerance and violence in parts of the country.
Political context and rights concerns
The incident comes at a time when civil society organisations have raised concerns over political violence and disruptions linked to public gatherings. Reports from rights groups have highlighted incidents involving intimidation and disruptions during political activities in different regions.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has previously indicated that it is compiling verified cases of rights violations, including injuries and deaths linked to protests and related events.
The commission has also referenced challenges in resource allocation for compensation frameworks for victims of rights violations.
Matiang’i’s remarks add to ongoing national discussions on political conduct and citizen safety ahead of the 2027 General Election period, with calls for adherence to the rule of law and protection of civil liberties during political activity.