National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has responded decisively to opposition leaders advocating for an International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation into political violence in Kenya.
On August 20, 2026, Ichung’wah expressed his support for an ICC investigation while emphasizing the necessity to also scrutinize the involvement of opposition leaders in the violence occurring at political events.
“I invite our esteemed colleagues in the opposition to welcome the ICC’s investigation into the issue of goonism. If you are planning such actions, it is hypocritical to point fingers at others,” Ichung’wah stated emphatically.
The Kikuyu MP reacted to the opposition’s calls for international intervention following violent incidents reported during political activities, including a recent episode in Homa Bay.
Ichung’wah accused opposition leaders of orchestrating violence and subsequently blaming the government for the ensuing unrest.
“It surprises me to see Martha Karua reading a prepared statement while James Orengo stands behind her. Orengo is the one who supports those engaging in violence, as you witnessed in Homa Bay. Let us avoid hypocrisy,” he remarked.
Ichung’wah believes that an ICC investigation would clarify the events surrounding political gatherings and identify the individuals responsible for the violence.
His comments arise amid escalating political tensions between the Kenya Kwanza administration and opposition leaders regarding the violence at political events.
Opposition leaders have demanded an investigation into President William Ruto, alleging State-sponsored violence and goonism.
In contrast, Ichung’wah defended the administration and accused opposition figures of instigating disruptions and then deflecting blame onto the government.
He also highlighted the recent Ol Kalou by-election, where he claimed that his supporters experienced threats and intimidation during the electoral process.
The lawmaker criticized political parties in the Mt Kenya region for attempting to stifle the operations of rival parties.
“Kenya is a nation of diverse parties, and everyone has the right to join any party they choose. We must not allow some to use violence and intimidation to prevent others from joining different parties. If you have your party, present your policies, but Kenya must remain a free country where everyone can make their political choices,” he asserted.
Former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria also contributed to the political discourse, urging leaders to safeguard their political strongholds.
Kuria articulated that political leaders have the right to protect their areas of influence as parties prepare for upcoming elections.
“It is time for everyone to defend their territory, and we intend to protect ours. Even Honorable Ruku has the right to defend his stronghold, and we have no issue with that. I’ve acquired a power saw; let’s move forward and prioritize the welfare of our people,” Kuria remarked.
These statements come as opposition leaders persist in their calls for international intervention regarding political violence, arguing that the government has failed to prevent violence at political gatherings and uphold fundamental freedoms.
This latest exchange contributes to the ongoing political debate surrounding violence, party competition, and preparations for the 2027 General Election, as both sides continue to exchange accusations over accountability for unrest at political events.
