Mandago Demands Action Over ‘Politically Sponsored Goons’ in Eldoret

Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago has called on Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to urgently address what he termed as the growing menace of politically sponsored gangs in Eldoret, warning that public trust in law enforcement has significantly eroded.

Speaking on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday, Mandago sought a formal statement from the Interior Ministry over alleged collusion between criminal gangs and sections of the police service operating within the town.

“Madam Speaker, I wanted to ask the Cabinet Secretary, in relation to Section C of Question Number Four on the mistrust of the public in law enforcement, what he is doing to ensure that officers who coordinate with goons — like in Eldoret where over 300 goons are roaming the city well known to the OCS — are dealt with so that public trust can be restored,” Mandago posed.

Misoi Assault Raises Alarm

The senator’s remarks follow a recent wave of violent incidents targeting traders, political actors, and individuals perceived to hold dissenting political views, particularly in Kapseret Sub-County.

The debate intensified after a brutal attack on former Uasin Gishu MCA Edwin Misoi, who remains admitted at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in critical condition.

Misoi was reportedly ambushed on Friday night in Eldoret’s Central Business District by individuals alleged to be politically affiliated gangs. Sources close to the matter suggest the attack may have been linked to his recent political stance regarding leadership dynamics in Kapseret.

The assault has drawn condemnation from leaders across the political divide, civil society organizations, and human rights defenders, who described it as an attempt to silence dissent within local politics.

Police have confirmed the arrest of four suspects in connection with the attack, including a suspected police officer. The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court as investigations continue.

Rights Groups Plan Demonstrations

Human rights organizations have since escalated pressure on authorities. Kimutai Kirui, representing the Centre Against Torture, has formally notified Eldoret Central Police Station of planned peaceful demonstrations set for Monday.

In a statement, Kirui accused elements within the police command of shielding criminal gangs allegedly linked to politicians.

“There have been numerous reported cases that never make it to court. Victims are left without justice while known perpetrators operate with impunity,” he said, further alleging that the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Eldoret Central has failed to act decisively against the gangs.

Organizers insist the protests will remain peaceful and are intended to demand accountability, transparency, and restoration of public confidence in law enforcement institutions.

Rising Political Tensions

Eldoret has experienced heightened political tension in recent months, with rival factions accusing each other of sponsoring youth gangs to intimidate opponents and control economic activities within the town.

Mandago’s intervention now shifts the spotlight to the Interior Ministry, raising broader concerns over command responsibility, police oversight, and the state’s commitment to curbing politically instigated violence.

As investigations into the Misoi attack continue, residents and business owners are urging authorities to take swift action to restore order and rebuild trust in the police service.