A lobby group has condemned the rising wave of organised crime, goonism and alleged fraud involving public resources, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to national security and public trust.
In a statement, the UK-based Justice and Equity Council Kenya said the vice was eroding public confidence and undermining livelihoods.
“These actions are a direct attack on public trust and a threat to the security, dignity, and livelihoods of Kenyans,” the council led by Sebastian Onyango said.
The group warned that criminal networks are increasingly operating with impunity, both online and in communities, and called for urgent investigations and accountability.
“It is unacceptable that criminal networks continue to operate with impunity… We demand immediate, transparent investigations and full accountability for all those involved,” the statement added.
The council further raised concerns that individuals benefiting from fraudulent dealings within county and national structures could be using illicit funds to sponsor violence and political instability.
“We note credible concerns that individuals… may be using illicit funds to sponsor violence and instability,” it said.
They called on investigative agencies, including the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, to urgently probe the source of funds suspected to be fueling unrest and take decisive legal action.
The group also demanded a full audit and public disclosure of the ownership and financial flows of the e-Citizen platform, urging Parliament to strengthen oversight and safeguard public funds.
“Any officials or entities found to have presided over loss, mismanagement, or diversion of public funds must be held personally accountable in accordance with the law,” the council stated.
As political activity intensifies ahead of next year’s general election, the group warned against the mobilisation of goons to disrupt peace and urged security agencies to remain neutral.
“We warn any individuals or political actors seeking to incite violence, mobilise goons, or disrupt peace: such actions are criminal and will attract the full force of the law.”
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has also blamed politicians for perpetuating the culture of hiring hooligans and challenged them to publicly denounce the practice.
Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, who appeared before Parliament, warned that security agencies are ready to crack down on the vice ahead of the polls.
He said law enforcement will not hesitate to act against individuals or groups involved in political violence, stressing the need for early action to prevent escalation during the campaign period.
