People's Liberation Party (PLP) leader, Martha Karua during the official opening of the office Kisii Branch has urged residents to reject political goons. Photo/Elizabeth Angira
By Elizabeth Angira
Martha Karua has called on residents of Kisii County to reject political violence and give all leaders a peaceful environment to campaign ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during the official opening of the People’s Liberation Party (PLP) branch office in Kisii County, Karua said the era of political intimidation and the use of hired goons to disrupt public meetings should come to an end.
She urged residents to uphold peace and democracy by allowing every politician, regardless of political affiliation, the freedom to campaign without fear or harassment.
“The people who will decide the next leaders are the voters, not goons. Every candidate deserves an equal opportunity to present their agenda to the electorate,” Karua said.
She emphasized that democracy can only thrive where citizens are free to listen to different political opinions and make independent decisions at the ballot box.
Karua condemned recent incidents of political violence witnessed in different parts of the country, warning that such acts undermine constitutional freedoms and threaten national unity.

She noted that Kenya has made significant progress in strengthening democratic institutions and should not return to an era where violence is used to silence political opponents.
“The politics of goonism belongs in the past. We must move forward as a country where ideas compete instead of violence. Elections should be won through policies and convincing voters not through intimidation,” she said.
The People’s Liberation Party leader challenged security agencies to remain impartial and ensure adequate security during political gatherings, saying every Kenyan has a constitutional right to assemble and participate in political activities peacefully.
Karua also encouraged the youth not to allow themselves to be used by politicians to cause chaos during political rallies. Instead, she urged them to focus on education, entrepreneurship, and constructive engagement in national development.
She further appealed to political leaders across the country to embrace issue-based campaigns that address the economic challenges facing Kenyans, including the high cost of living, unemployment, healthcare, and education.
According to Karua, leadership should be earned through integrity, accountability, and service to the people rather than through fear and violence.
According to the section of residents who attended the event welcomed the opening of the party office, saying it would strengthen political engagement in the region and provide a platform for civic education and democratic participation.
The launch attracted supporters from various parts of Kisii County, with party officials expressing confidence that the People’s Liberation Party would continue expanding its grassroots presence across the country.
Karua concluded by urging Kenyans to remain united despite political differences, reminding them that elections are temporary but peace and national cohesion are long-term responsibilities shared by all citizens.
“Let us respect one another during this political season. Ultimately, it is the voters who will determine the kind of leaders they want through the ballot, and that choice must be respected,” she said.