Shocking report reveals how politicians are forming militias ahead of August elections

dennis kibet

March 23, 2017 3:20 PM

Kenyan political campaigns have always been marred by chaos.

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Politicians are forming militias to protect themselves and ensure victory ahead of the August polls.

This is according to a report tabled to parliament by the National Security Council (NSC) which is headed by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

This report comes after President Kenyatta on Tuesday sensationally claimed that National Super Alliance (Nasa) leader Raila Odinga was the main man behind the 2007/2008 Post Election Violence (PEV).

Speaking during his recent tour in Kisii, President Kenyatta said that Raila incited the masses and thereafter pushed the blame on Deputy President William Ruto.

However in a swift rejoinder, Raila said he understood the desperation of the President for something to hang on to and re-energise his depressed 2013 voting bloc.

Outlawed criminal gangs

The security report also warned on the re-emergence of outlawed criminal gangs during the campaign period.

"Some politicians form militias to advance their own interests. These criminal groups have continued to hamper security efforts in some parts of the country, thereby slowing economic development," the report says.

Interior CS Joseph Nkaissery last year gazetted 90 outlawed across the country and warned that security officers would arrest and prosecute members of the criminal gangs.

The gazetted gangs include Gaza, Superpower, 42 Brothers, American Marines, Acrobatic, Young Turks, Young Killers, Wakali Wao, Chapa Ilale and Akili Za Usiku.

Others include Taliban Boys, Seven Lions, Spanish Boys, Boston Boys, Sixty Four, Smarter, Tiacha Group, Rounder Seniors and Quick Response Group.

These organised gangs have been linked to disruption of political events, robberies, beatings, assassinations and shootings.

dennis kibet