Matiang'i claims Ruto was aware of plot to mobilise goons in Homa Bay - August 2026

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has accused President William Ruto and his administration of orchestrating violence as a political strategy, alleging President Ruto's awareness of a plot to mobilize "goons" for a rally in Homa Bay. Two people, including a police officer, were killed and 54 others injured during the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay Town on Sunday. Political violence during the rally resulted in the destruction of property worth millions of shillings, affecting vehicles, a church, and a hotel. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has strongly condemned escalating political violence and directly challenged President William Ruto to halt what he termed "political goonism." Political analyst Peter Kagwanja asserts that the "culture of goonism" in politics is a meticulously planned tactic rather than a spontaneous occurrence. Matiang'i also claims the government is now jamming signals in opposition rallies and hacking social media accounts.