Wamuzi News Ke
In a move that has sent shockwaves across the political and religious landscape, Kenya has officially declared both the Muslim Brotherhood and Hizb-ur-Tahrir as terrorist organizations. The ban, issued under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, marks one of the most significant anti-extremism steps in recent memory and is immediately enforceable.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen formalized the ban through a gazette notice dated September 19, 2025. The declaration criminalizes support, membership, fundraising, or any form of association with either group. The designation will remain valid indefinitely unless reversed by the Cabinet Secretary or nullified through judicial intervention.
What This Means Legally and Security-Wise
The declaration under Section 3(3) of the Prevention of Terrorism Act gives authorities sweeping powers to:
- Freeze assets tied to these groups, their members, or their networks.
- Shut down meetings or gatherings affiliated with Muslim Brotherhood or Hizb-ur-Tahrir.
- Prosecute individuals or organizations found to be supporting these entities through financial contribution, promotion, or advocacy.
- Investigate, arrest and detain persons linked to either group under anti-terrorism provisions.
Kenya joins a number of other countries that have banned these transnational religious-political movements, citing concerns over radicalization, extremist ideology, and perceived risks to national security.
Why Now: Context and Triggers
The government says the move is driven by growing alarm about extremist ideologies infiltrating vulnerable populations, particularly among youth, and the possibility of foreign influence through ideological networks and funding channels. Authorities point to past attacks and rising threats from radicalized elements as justification.
Critics of the decision, however, warn of potential backlash. They argue that banning large religious or political movements risks pushing operations underground, making them harder to monitor, and possibly fueling resentment among communities who feel targeted. Some civil society actors have also raised concerns over the impact on civil liberties and freedom of association.
Political Fallout and Public Reaction
The decision is expected to have far-reaching effects:
- Religious leaders and community activists are bracing for tense reactions across Muslim majority regions.
- Security agencies will be under pressure to enforce the ban swiftly, especially in closing off recruitment, propaganda, and financial links.
- Legal challenges are almost certain. The ban’s indefinite nature leaves open the possibility of court battles seeking to vacate or narrow its terms.
- International observers and donor partners will be watching closely to see how Kenya balances counter-terrorism with protection of human rights.
