Politicians Risk Losing Security, Warns Coast Police Boss

By Mishel Akinyi

Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno has issued a stern warning to politicians accused of hiring goons to disrupt political activities, saying they risk losing their state-provided security if they continue sponsoring violence.

Speaking during a press briefing at the Coast, Nuno declared:

“We’ll withdraw security from politicians. Let them be protected by their goons, then we’ll meet on the ground.”

He further emphasized that any politician found financing or using criminal gangs to cause unrest would no longer enjoy police protection.

According to the commander, the National Police Service is committed to maintaining law and order and will not allow police officers to protect leaders who are simultaneously accused of undermining public peace and disrupting political gatherings. He urged politicians to conduct peaceful campaigns and avoid exploiting young people to carry out acts of violence.

The remarks come amid heightened political tensions and growing concerns over the use of hired gangs to disrupt rallies, demonstrations, and by-election campaigns in different parts of the country. In recent months, several incidents involving alleged political goons have sparked public debate over security and accountability.

The warning also aligns with recent directives from the national government. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced a nationwide crackdown on political goons and criminal gangs ahead of the 2027 General Election, warning that politicians who recruit or incite young people to engage in violence will face firm action.

President William Ruto has also called on security agencies to decisively tackle criminal gangs while operating within the law, stating that Kenya cannot tolerate criminality disguised as politics.

Security analysts say Nuno’s statement signals a tougher approach by law enforcement toward political leaders suspected of sponsoring violence, with the withdrawal of state-provided security emerging as a possible consequence for those found culpable.