Nelson Koech Says Leaders Across Political Divide Should Stop Using Goons

Belgut Member of Parliament Nelson Koech

Belgut Member of Parliament Nelson Koech has urged political leaders to stop relying on groups commonly described as goons. He argued that politicians from both government and opposition camps should end the practice immediately.

The lawmaker made the remarks during a television interview on Monday, July 13, 2026. He said the issue affects leaders across different political parties instead of one political side.

Koech Says Problem Cuts Across Political Camps

Koech argued that politicians should avoid blaming rivals while ignoring similar practices within their own parties. He maintained that every political formation should accept responsibility for addressing the growing concern.

According to the legislator, leaders should work together to discourage the use of groups hired for protection. He warned that the trend continues damaging public confidence in Kenya's political environment.

The MP said politicians should lead by example instead of encouraging actions that may fuel political tensions. He stressed that peaceful engagement should remain the foundation of every political activity.

Koech claimed that leaders from different political backgrounds often rely on similar groups during campaigns. He insisted that the practice should end regardless of political affiliation or party interests.

MP Calls for Collective Action

The Belgut legislator urged leaders to agree on practical measures that discourage the use of such groups. He argued that collective commitment would produce better results than trading accusations during political disputes.

Koech said recent political events demonstrated that the problem extends beyond one political coalition or region. He maintained that lasting solutions require cooperation from leaders across the political divide.

During the interview, he claimed that politicians frequently move with supporters providing unofficial security during public events. He said this reality should encourage leaders to reform their approach before future elections.

The MP added that ordinary citizens closely observe how leaders conduct themselves during political activities. He warned that negative examples could influence young people and encourage unnecessary confrontations.

Political Violence Remains a Growing Concern

Koech's remarks come as concerns about political violence continue attracting national attention across Kenya. Recent campaign events have generated allegations involving intimidation, disruptions, and confrontations between rival political supporters.

Several political leaders have exchanged accusations over claims that hired groups disrupted meetings and intimidated opponents. The allegations have increased public debate about political tolerance ahead of future elections.

Civil society organisations have also called for peaceful campaigns and greater respect among competing political camps. Many observers believe responsible leadership remains essential for preventing unnecessary political confrontations.

Analysts argue that reducing politically motivated violence requires commitment from leaders regardless of party affiliation. They maintain that public confidence grows when politicians reject intimidation and embrace peaceful competition.

Recent Incidents Renew Public Debate

Koech's comments followed recent political incidents reported in Kisumu and Nyahururu during public gatherings. Both incidents generated widespread discussion after confrontations disrupted planned political activities in the affected areas.

Political leaders from different sides later exchanged accusations over responsibility for the disturbances during those events. The incidents renewed concerns about the conduct of supporters attending political meetings across the country.

Campaign activities surrounding the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election have also drawn increased public attention in recent weeks. Competing political camps have continued exchanging allegations involving attempts to interfere with campaign programmes.

Authorities have repeatedly urged political supporters to maintain peace throughout the campaign period. Security agencies continue monitoring public gatherings to prevent violence and protect participants attending political events.

Leaders Urged to Promote Peaceful Politics

Koech maintained that politicians should demonstrate leadership by promoting peaceful participation during political engagements across Kenya. He argued that respectful campaigns strengthen democracy and encourage citizens to participate without fear.

The legislator said political competition should focus on ideas and development instead of confrontation between rival groups. He encouraged leaders to create an environment where supporters express opinions peacefully.

He also noted that cooperation among political leaders would help reduce tensions before future national elections. Such efforts, he said, could improve public trust while strengthening confidence in democratic institutions.

Many stakeholders continue urging politicians to exercise restraint whenever addressing supporters during campaign meetings. They believe responsible leadership plays an important role in maintaining stability during competitive political contests.

Calls for Accountability Continue

Observers say leaders from every political party share responsibility for reducing hostility during political campaigns. They argue that consistent messages supporting peace can discourage supporters from engaging in confrontational behaviour.

Political analysts also believe stronger accountability could discourage actions that undermine peaceful democratic participation across the country. They maintain that equal enforcement of existing laws remains important for protecting electoral integrity.

As political activities continue, attention remains focused on how leaders respond to growing public concerns about violence. Many Kenyans expect politicians to promote unity while respecting democratic principles throughout future campaigns.

Koech's remarks have added another voice to the national conversation about improving political conduct before upcoming elections. Whether leaders adopt his proposal remains uncertain, but the debate continues attracting widespread public interest.