Rights groups move to court over alleged political violence ahead of 2027 polls

In a petition filed at the Milimani Law Courts, the petitioners accuse the State of failing to prevent, investigate and prosecute politically motivated violence, warning that continued attacks could undermine constitutional freedoms ahead of the 2027 General Election.

They want the court to compel the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and the National Police Service (NPS) to investigate the incidents, including claims that organised groups have been recruited and financed to disrupt lawful public gatherings.

The petitioners are also seeking investigations into whether political parties or their officials have sponsored, financed or facilitated armed groups, contrary to Article 91(2)(c) of the Constitution, which prohibits political parties from establishing or maintaining paramilitary forces, militias or similar organisations.

Central to the petition is a demand for the establishment of a dedicated multi-agency task force to investigate and prosecute individuals and networks allegedly responsible for politically motivated violence.

Source: Citizen Digital