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Originally published by The Standardtop
May 10, 2026
8h ago
Inside Kenya's battle to stop 'goons and guns' as fears of political violence grow
The history of politically sponsored criminal gangs dates back to the reintroduction of multiparty democracy, unemployed youths are hired by politicians turn into tools of electoral intimidation...
✨ Key Highlights
Kenya is grappling with a resurgence of politically motivated violence, marked by brazen attacks on politicians and fears of electoral intimidation reminiscent of past unrest.
- Over 104 local criminal gangs are reportedly active, many "under the patronage of politicians."
- The violence follows an attack on Senator Godfrey Osotsi in Kisumu and affects figures like former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
- Despite government pledges to crack down, critics argue the response is weak, with allegations of police complicity and gangs operating with impunity.
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