President William Ruto has declared that Kenya will hold peaceful elections in 2027, warning those planning to use violence to disrupt the polls that they are in for a “rude shock.”
Speaking during the consecration and enthronement of Rt. Rev. Dr. Vitalis Job Ekuru as the fourth Bishop of the ACK Diocese of Katakwa in Busia County on Sunday, Ruto said his government will not allow criminals to derail the country’s democratic process.
“I want to assure the people of Kenya that we will have peaceful elections. Anybody who thinks they can destabilise our nation should prepare for a rude shock,” the President said.
Ruto revealed that the government had agreed on a firm plan to deal with political goons, saying criminal gangs will no longer be allowed to terrorise Kenyans or disrupt political meetings.
“We have agreed that we are going to deal with these goons once and for all. They cannot continue threatening the peace and stability of our country,” he said.
The Head of State insisted that every Kenyan has the constitutional right to campaign and support a political party of their choice, but warned that violence and lawlessness will not be tolerated.
His remarks come at a time when political temperatures are rising ahead of the 2027 General Election, with several cases of violence reported during political gatherings in different parts of the country.
Ruto also took issue with what he termed as lenient court decisions, arguing that suspects linked to political violence are often released on low bond terms before returning to commit similar offences.
He urged leaders across the political divide to embrace peaceful campaigns, saying Kenya’s unity and stability must come before politics.
“We must protect the peace of our country because without it, there can be no development,” Ruto said.
