Wamuzi News Ke
In a major legal challenge that could reshape Kenya’s political-landscape ahead of the 2027 elections, senior government figures including ministers and the national police chief are facing a courtroom showdown over alleged early partisan campaigning and abuse of office.
Government heavyweights sued for partisan campaigning
A fresh petition has been filed at the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and submitted to the courts naming numerous Cabinet Secretaries in the William Ruto administration, along with Kenya Police Service leadership, including the Inspector-General of Police, for purportedly breaching the Constitution and key public service laws.
Among the critical allegations: a Cabinet Secretary addressed a teachers’ forum in Malava, Kakamega County, and urged attendees to “stand with the President” and back his re-election plans, while the police boss is accused of failing to uphold the neutrality required of his office.
Key allegations break down
The petition charges that:
- The officials used “official functions, forums and platforms” to advance the electoral interests of the ruling party, amounting to abuse of public office.
- The civil service and security organs were turned into “extensions of political parties,” undermining the integrity and impartiality mandated by law.
- Several public engagements—church services, teacher meetings, rallies—were exploited to deliver partisan messaging.
Stakes and implications
This legal move comes at a volatile moment in Kenyan politics. As the country gears up toward the next general elections, the petition signals mounting scrutiny of how state resources and official platforms are used—or misused—for political gain. If successful, it may lead to:
- Judicial orders restraining senior officials from further campaigning in their official capacity.
- Calls for resignations or disciplinary action against high-level figures found to have breached the law.
- Renewed public debate about the separation of public office and party politics, especially regarding the role of the police in electoral integrity.
The petition will proceed to full hearing, where evidence and affidavits will be scrutinised. The outcome will determine whether key parts of the allegations stand for trial and whether the judiciary will impose sanctions or injunctions on the respondents. Civil society groups and political watchers are closely monitoring the case, recognising it as a potential precedent for accountability in post-election Kenya.
