Wednesday 19th August, 2026 06:34 PM|
A human rights organisation has asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) to closely monitor Kenya ahead of the 2027 General Election, citing rising political violence, inflammatory rhetoric and concerns over institutional accountability.
VOCAL Africa made the request in a letter dated August 19, 2026, addressed to the ICC Prosecutor. The organisation described the communication as an early-warning appeal under Article 15 of the Rome Statute and urged the court to take formal notice of developments in Kenya.
The group warned that the combination of political intolerance, organised violence, ethnic mobilisation and weak accountability could create conditions for serious human rights violations.
VOCAL Africa flags political violence
VOCAL Africa said the use of organised groups during political activities had become increasingly common since the Gen Z protests of 2024 and 2025.
The organisation cited incidents reported in Homa Bay, Mombasa, Nairobi, Kisumu, Kisii, Nyeri, Nyandarua, Nakuru and Kajiado counties.
It specifically pointed to violence reported in Homa Bay on August 16 during political activities linked to the Linda Mwananchi movement. At least two people were killed and scores injured, while journalists covering the events were also attacked.
The organisation also cited incidents in Mombasa and Nairobi, including disruptions of public meetings and attacks on journalists and human rights defenders.
VOCAL Africa questioned the organisation and financing of groups involved in the attacks and called for greater attention to those who organise, finance or facilitate political violence.
Group warns of rising political tensions
The organisation also raised concerns over political rhetoric, ethnic profiling and statements targeting political opponents and communities.
It said inflammatory language by political leaders, when combined with organised violence and weak accountability, could heighten tensions as the country moves closer to the 2027 elections.
VOCAL Africa referred to Kenya’s 2007–2008 post-election violence, warning that political mobilisation could acquire an ethnic dimension if current trends continue.
The group also criticised what it described as limited accountability following incidents of political violence, saying investigations and arrests had not adequately addressed those responsible for organising or financing attacks.
It cited the roles of institutions including the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) in preventing violence and promoting accountability.
ICC urged to closely monitor Kenya
VOCAL Africa asked the ICC to retain its communication for assessment under Article 15 of the Rome Statute and closely monitor developments ahead of the election.
The organisation further urged the court to preserve and analyse credible information relating to acts that could fall within its jurisdiction, with particular attention to individuals and networks involved in organising or financing attacks against civilians, journalists, protesters and political opponents.
It also called on the United Nations, African Union, diplomatic missions, international human rights organisations and development partners to deploy long-term human rights and electoral monitors in Kenya.
VOCAL Africa said early monitoring could help document emerging patterns and identify those responsible for violence before the election period.
