Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi Speaking during the Divine Mercy Pilgrimage at Kyumbi Shrine in Mavoko on April 11, 2026. Photo Courtesy. 
By Andrew Mbuva.
Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi has strongly condemned the growing trend of politicians hiring goons to intimidate opponents, warning that such actions pose a serious threat to democracy and national stability.
Speaking during the Divine Mercy Pilgrimage at Kyumbi Shrine in Mavoko, Mwangangi cautioned that political violence often begins subtly but can escalate into widespread instability if left unchecked.
Drawing comparisons with countries in the Great Lakes region and Somalia, the Deputy Governor noted that nations that descend into chaos often exhibit early signs of organized political violence, including the use of paid youth to disrupt opponents’ gatherings.
“This habit of paying young people to shout down or attack political opponents may seem like a game at first, but it is a dangerous path. We have seen how it starts and where it leads,” he said.
Mwangangi revealed that the consequences of such actions are already being felt locally, citing an incident where an elected leader is currently hospitalized in Karen following an attack linked to goonism.
He emphasized that the problem is fueled by intolerance among leaders who are unwilling to accommodate dissenting voices, urging for policy interventions that can empower young people economically and reduce their vulnerability to manipulation.
“We must create opportunities so that no young person is available for hire to engage in violence. Leadership is about service, not suppression,” he stated.
The Deputy Governor did not mince words in criticizing leaders who sponsor such acts, terming them unfit for public office.
“Any leader who pays people to cause chaos is extremely dangerous. Such individuals have no place in leadership,” he warned.
Mwangangi also took issue with corruption, particularly the misuse of public funds disguised as generosity during public fundraisers. He questioned the source of large donations made at harambees, suggesting that some of the money could be proceeds of corruption.
As the country gears up for the next general election, he challenged voters to make informed choices, urging them to reject handouts and instead prioritize integrity and accountability at the ballot.
“We may take the money during campaigns, but when it comes to voting, let us elect leaders who truly represent our aspirations for the next five years,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing concern over political intolerance and the rising cases of violence in the country’s political landscape, with calls intensifying for reforms to safeguard democratic space and promote issue-based politics.
