Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula has raised concern over rising cases of violence involving youths at political gatherings, warning that the trend threatens democratic participation ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking on Sunday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Siyoi, Kapenguria, West Pokot County, Wetang’ula said such behaviour must be stopped. He said it weakens constitutional freedoms and spreads fear among citizens taking part in political activities.

He said:

“While addressing congregants at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Siyoi, in Kapenguria, West Pokot County, I emphasised that such acts must not be tolerated, as they undermine the constitutional right to association and instil fear among citizens.”

Wetang’ula urged security agencies to take firm action against those behind organised violence at public rallies. He said the state has a duty to protect peaceful political engagement and ensure order is maintained during public events.

“I called upon our security agencies to act decisively in maintaining law and order, and to safeguard an environment that supports peaceful and lawful political engagement,” he said.

Youth warned, resource focus

He also warned young people against being recruited into groups that take part in violence. He said such actions could destroy their future and harm national stability.

“I also cautioned our youth against being drawn into acts of violence that could compromise their future and the stability of our nation,” he added.

The National Assembly Speaker further used the platform to speak on West Pokot’s natural resource potential, including gold and limestone deposits. He said proper laws would help ensure local communities benefit from these resources.

He noted that the proposed Natural Resources Benefit Sharing Bill, 2022, would create a fair system for sharing royalties between national and county governments and affected communities.

Wetang’ula was accompanied by several leaders, including West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin, Senator Julius Murgor, Kapenguria MP Samuel Moroto, Webuye East MP Martin Pepela, County MP Rael Kasiwai and former Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha.

He said the leaders agreed on the need to uphold national unity and respect for the President as a symbol of cohesion.

“Together, we reaffirmed the importance of upholding respect for William Ruto as a symbol of national unity,” he said.

The remarks come amid growing political tension in parts of the country, with leaders calling for restraint as concerns over organised violence at public rallies continue to rise.

Gachagua warns security threat

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has warned that rising cases of what he termed “goonism” could destabilise Kenya if not addressed early. Speaking during a church service at PEFA Works in Kajiado County on Sunday, April 12, 2026, he said the country must learn from other nations where armed groups started small before growing into powerful forces.

He pointed to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and gang violence in Haiti as examples of how criminal groups can evolve into uncontrollable militias when tolerated or supported. Gachagua said Kenya is already seeing early signs of organised violence linked to political activity, warning that failure to act could worsen the situation ahead of future elections.