Presidential aspirant Martha Karua has called on President William Ruto to resign if he finds political competition unbearable, condemning the recent surge in political violence ahead of Kenya's 2027 General Election.

In a statement dated August 16, 2026, the People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader decried attacks linked to the Linda Mwananchi movement's activities in various regions, highlighting incidents in Homa Bay where road blockages, tyre burnings, and convoy disruptions were reported.

Karua also referenced reports of individuals forcefully entering a hotel in Homa Bay to intimidate movement members, and pointed to similar disturbances in Kisii and Nyahururu as evidence of a worrying trend of political intimidation.

Condemning Political Violence

Karua described the violence as a threat to democratic freedoms, emphasizing that political competition should not devolve into a contest of which side can deploy the most intimidation tactics.

  • In Kisii, a convoy was attacked by assailants wielding clubs and stones, resulting in the death of supporter Vincent Osiemo from sustained injuries.
  • Nyahururu witnessed a disrupted Linda Mwananchi rally.
  • Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata reported that his driver was shot during political activities.

She stressed that the Constitution should protect citizens' rights beyond mere words, warning against a scenario where violence dictates who may participate politically.

Call for Accountability and Probes

Warning against the normalization of political violence, Karua urged comprehensive investigations into the organisations and funding behind groups disrupting political events.

"We must identify those who organise and finance these goons, understand how they operate openly, and question why security agencies often fail to intervene," she said.

Karua highlighted the risk of political intolerance escalating beyond isolated incidents, ultimately harming ordinary Kenyans rather than the politicians who exploit such tactics.

2027 Election Vision

Reaffirming her commitment to constitutional democracy, Karua pledged to uphold citizens’ rights to political participation and free expression if elected president.

Her campaign promises include safeguarding democratic institutions, maintaining judicial independence, and enhancing government accountability.

As the 2027 elections approach, Karua's statement underscores growing concerns about political violence and the need to protect peaceful political engagement across Kenya.