Sh200 enough to lure vulnerable youth into political violence, DPP says

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Igonga

Unemployed and vulnerable young people are being exploited and recruited into acts of political violence and goonism for as little as Sh200, Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Igonga has said.

Igonga warned that the growing use of vulnerable people to cause violence and disruption was becoming a major concern, particularly as Kenya moves closer to the 2027 General Election.

Speaking on emerging threats, including political violence, gender-based violence and online disinformation, the DPP said many of those recruited to engage in goonism were economically vulnerable and did not fully understand why they were being asked to participate in violent activities.

“Those involved in goonism do not even know why they are doing it. They have just been told,” Igonga said.

He said unemployment and economic hardship had made some young people easy targets for individuals who recruit and use them to advance political interests.