KENYA : An attack on a Member of County Assembly (MCA) within the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) sparked widespread condemnation from both political and public figures.
Kitisuru MCA Alvin Olando was attacked on Tuesday, January 14, by goons he alleged were sent by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja due to his differing political stance.
“I was in the city while I was walking goons attacked me from behind me and started calling me a thief,” he said.
“After I was beaten up, I went to report the incident at the Central Police Station. I later went to Aga Khan Hospital, where I was treated.”
The attack has drawn strong condemnation from Westlands Constituency youth, led by ODM Youth Leader Evans Ochieng.
They described the incident as a direct assault on an elected leader and the democratic principles that bind the nation.
“As youth, we reject and denounce all forms of political thuggery and violence. Such cowardly actions are unacceptable and have no place in a progressive society like ours,” the group stated in part.
“The attack on Olando is a violation of his rights, and we stand in solidarity with him during this difficult time. We believe that violence, intimidation, and impunity are the tools of the weak,” they added.
The youth further condemned the perpetrators, labeling them as cowards who seek to destabilize unity and harmony in the community.
They emphasized that these actions are a direct affront to the values of political tolerance, mutual respect, and freedom of expression.
“We call upon law enforcement agencies to conduct thorough investigations into this incident and ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice. Let this serve as a warning to those who believe they can silence divergent voices through violence,” their statement read.
“We urge all leaders, irrespective of their affiliations, to condemn this act and champion peaceful coexistence. Let us engage in dialogue and constructive debate instead of resorting to violence.”
Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi opined that such acts of political thuggery are not only a violation of his rights as an individual but also an affront to the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
He stated that those who perpetrate such primitive actions in this day and age are nothing but cowards, seeking to undermine the freedoms and rights that define our democracy.
“It is unimaginable that in this modern era, some individuals resort to such reprehensible behavior to suppress divergent political views,” the MP said.
“We must foster political tolerance and embrace the spirit of accommodation for differing opinions. This is the only way to build a peaceful and progressive society.”
Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai also called upon the relevant authorities to swiftly investigate this incident, apprehend the culprits, and ensure they face the full force of the law.
“We would like to condemn this action, and these boys should be arrested because we all know we are dealing with thuggery in this country,” he stated.
