Lead image for Political violence puts Kenyan women lawmakers and aspirants on edge .
Recent violence linked to electoral campaigns has opened a debate, particularly over the security of women aspirants on the campaign trail as the clock ticks towards the 2027 General Election.
In Homa Bay, violent scenes surrounding the Linda Mwananchi rally disrupted business and transport. Journalists covering the events were also caught up in the chaos. In Nakuru, the Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua and his entourage were also attacked, leaving a trail of destruction.
In the wake of these attacks, which were allegedly enabled by goons, women leaders and aspirants have raised concerns about the worrying trend that puts their lives and those of their supporters in danger.
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They have called for the arrest and prosecution of individuals found to be inciting or organising violence. Senator Hamida Kibwana says the rise in political temperatures is already worrying, particularly because women and other vulnerable groups often bear the consequences when political disputes turn violent.
“It’s quite unfortunate that we are already witnessing an increase in political tensions. We can only pray and hope that the situation doesn’t worsen, particularly for women.”
Gilgil MP Martha Wangari says the incidents in Homa Bay and Nakuru should serve as a wake-up call to the country, warning that political violence appears to be spreading beyond individual constituencies or regions, with women aspirants and voters among those who will face the greatest danger. She recalls the violence witnessed during last month’s Ol Kalou by-election, saying residents, including women and girls, were caught up in the unrest.
“I urge Kenyans and political leaders to take the trend seriously before the country enters the intense campaign period for the 2027 election,” the legislator says.