Human Rights Activist Raises Alarm Over Political Mobilization and Security Risks in Central Kenya

 An Eldoret-based human rights activist has raised serious concerns over what he describes as a dangerous escalation of politically driven ethnic mobilization in parts of Central Kenya, warning that failure by the state to act early could expose the country to renewed instability.

Speaking in his capacity as a human rights defender and civil society actor, Kipkorir Ngetich called upon the Government of Kenya, particularly the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), to urgently and closely monitor the conduct and political activities of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Nyandarua Senator John Methu.

According to Ngetich, the two leaders have increasingly portrayed themselves as “freedom fighters” and crusaders for democracy and justice. However, he alleges that this public posture sharply contrasts with what he terms covert activities aimed at fomenting ethnic hostility and preparing the ground for organized political unrest.

“Kenya is a democratic state founded on the rule of law, constitutionalism, and respect for human rights,” Ngetich said. “Every Kenyan is entitled to freedom of expression, association, and political participation. But when these freedoms are abused to incite hatred, organize ethnic blocs against the state, or prepare communities for violent confrontation, that conduct ceases to be democratic and becomes a serious national security concern.”

Ngetich cited recent incidents of chaos and political tension in Nyeri as deeply troubling, describing them as “strategic and well-calculated rehearsals” rather than spontaneous public dissent. He urged security agencies not to dismiss such incidents as isolated events, but instead to assess them within the broader context of rising political polarization in the Mt Kenya region.

He further alleged that since his impeachment, Mr. Gachagua has persistently used tribal rhetoric to alienate Mt Kenya residents from the rest of the country, particularly targeting communities such as the Kalenjin, Luo, and Somali. Ngetich warned that this form of messaging undermines national cohesion and reverses gains made since the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.

“What is most alarming,” Ngetich noted, “is the reported involvement of young people and even school-going children in these divisive narratives. Children should never be weaponized for political or ethnic agendas. This is a dangerous path that Kenya has walked before, with devastating consequences.”

The human rights activist drew a sharp distinction between what he termed “genuine freedom movements” and ethnic-based political mobilization. He referenced historical figures such as the late Jean-Marie Seroney and J.M. Kariuki, as well as veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga, describing them as leaders who pursued justice and reform without advancing tribal hatred or calling for violence.

Ngetich also criticized attempts to compare Mr. Gachagua to Ugandan opposition figure Bobi Wine, arguing that such parallels are misleading. “Bobi Wine’s struggle has been characterized by calls for restraint and non-violence, despite immense personal suffering,” he said. “It is therefore disingenuous and shameful for any leader associated with incitement, tribalism, or historical allegations of brutality to dress up as a freedom icon.”

He went on to allege that Mr. Gachagua has been engaged in clandestine planning for violent political confrontation, similar to unrest witnessed during the Gen Z protests, which Ngetich claimed were partly financed by political actors seeking to destabilize the government. He further alleged that funds collected during Mr. Gachagua’s recent extended stay abroad were being channeled toward mobilizing jobless youth in Central Kenya for large-scale political violence—claims he said must be thoroughly investigated by competent authorities.

According to Ngetich, elected leaders from Central Kenya who do not align themselves with Mr. Gachagua’s political agenda, as well as government officers working in the region, are increasingly becoming targets of intimidation, isolation, and hostility. He warned that there are deliberate efforts to make certain regions politically inaccessible to leaders perceived as “outsiders,” thereby undermining democratic competition and service delivery.

“This is a deliberate attempt to create internal political hostility in Central Kenya,” he said. “No Kenyan should be threatened, attacked, or denied the right to serve or campaign in any part of this country because of ethnic identity or political beliefs.”

Ngetich appealed directly to residents of the Mt Kenya region to reject what he described as fear-based and exclusionary politics. He emphasized that the region’s historical role in national leadership and economic development should not be reduced to a platform for division and confrontation.

He also urged the government to take proactive measures to guarantee the safety and freedom of movement of elected leaders, civil servants, and ordinary citizens in Central Kenya, stressing that failure to act decisively could embolden extremist political elements.

“National cohesion and security are collective responsibilities,” Ngetich concluded. “Political competition must never be allowed to degenerate into ethnic war-mongering. The security apparatus must act within the Constitution to prevent violence, protect lives, and preserve the peace and stability of our nation.”

By the time of publication, neither former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua nor Senator John Methu had issued a public response to the allegations raised.