Human rights defenders link hiring of goons during protests to rising insecurity
By Kiprono Keileb, September 12, 2025The country has been witnessing increasing unrest, with violent incidents reported across multiple regions. Amid this issue, human rights activist Hussein Khalid has drawn attention to the root cause, pointing fingers at those he says are orchestrating the chaos.
Khalid took to his official X account on Friday, September 12, 2025, and condemned the actions of groups he described as “goons” who are creating havoc in the country.
“It is the goons who were sent by politicians and state operatives to disrupt protests, meetings and press conferences who are now causing havoc and mayhem all over the country,” he said, highlighting the role these groups play in escalating tension rather than maintaining order.
According to Khalid, the responsibility for the unrest does not lie solely with the individuals carrying out these attacks but with the politicians who organised and funded them.
“Politicians who mobilised and funded them in the first place should equally be held responsible,” he added, stressing that accountability must extend beyond the foot soldiers to the masterminds behind the operations.
The remarks come at a time when citizens are expressing frustration over escalating violence and disruptions in their communities, mostly witnessed in the past week in Nairobi.
Khalid’s comments underline the connection between political manoeuvring and the challenges facing everyday Kenyans, emphasising the need for leaders to act responsibly and ensure peace.
By pointing out the link between political sponsorship and public disorder, Khalid is calling on authorities to investigate and take action against those who exploit citizens for personal or political gain. His statement also serves as a reminder that political interference in public demonstrations and civic spaces can have far-reaching consequences, affecting security and the social fabric of communities.
As incidents of unrest continue, Khalid’s words resonate as a plea for transparency, justice, and responsible leadership. The call for holding both the actors and their political backers accountable reflects the urgency of restoring order and protecting citizens from violence.
Kenya now faces a crucial moment where the actions of a few can shape public trust in leadership and governance. Khalid’s warning serves as a reminder that stability and safety depend not only on the actions of those on the ground but also on the choices and accountability of those in power.