Silence in the Face of Violence Is Complicity

The Social Justice Movement strongly condemns the growing trend of organized attacks against civil society organizations, human rights defenders, and citizens exercising their constitutional rights. The recent violent disruption of a public forum organized by KHRC, discussing the 2026/2027 national budget is not an isolated incident. It is part of a disturbing pattern that threatens Kenya’s democratic foundations and raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to protecting fundamental freedoms.

Freedom of assembly, freedom of expression, and public participation are not privileges granted by those in power. They are constitutional rights guaranteed to every Kenyan. Citizens have the right to gather peacefully, discuss public affairs, critique government policies, and participate in shaping the nation’s future without fear of intimidation, assault, or harassment.

The attack on civic actors gathered to discuss the national budget is deeply alarming. Public participation is a constitutional requirement and an essential pillar of democratic governance. Kenyans cannot meaningfully contribute to policy discussions if meetings are invaded by violent groups acting with apparent impunity. Civic education and public engagement around the budget are crucial because citizens deserve to understand how public resources are collected, allocated, and spent.

What is even more concerning is the continued silence from state authorities whenever such incidents occur. When armed or organized groups repeatedly attack civil society meetings and no meaningful investigations, arrests, or prosecutions follow, it creates the impression that violence is being tolerated, if not outright condoned. The absence of accountability emboldens perpetrators and sends a dangerous message that those who intimidate citizens can act without consequences.

The continued attacks against the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) are particularly troubling. Last year, KHRC offices were violently invaded by individuals widely perceived as pro-government goons. Despite widespread public concern and available evidence, justice remains elusive. The failure to hold those responsible accountable has only encouraged further acts of intimidation against human rights defenders and civic organizations.

As Kenya moves closer to the 2027 General Election, these developments should concern every citizen regardless of political affiliation. History has shown that shrinking civic space is often a warning sign of deeper democratic decline. When civil society organizations, human rights defenders, journalists, and ordinary citizens are targeted for expressing opinions or organizing public forums, the entire nation is placed at risk.

The Social Justice Movement rejects violence in all its forms. Political differences, ideological disagreements, or policy debates must never be settled through intimidation and force. Democracy demands dialogue, not clubs. It requires persuasion, not threats.

We therefore call upon the government, law enforcement agencies, and independent institutions to act decisively against all individuals involved in attacks on civic actors. We also urge Kenyans to remain vigilant in defending constitutional freedoms.

A democratic society cannot thrive where citizens are afraid to speak, assemble, or participate. The protection of civic space is not optional—it is the foundation upon which a free and just Kenya must stand.