A coalition of opposition parties and political movements has asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) to assess alleged political violence in Kenya, warning that the incidents could threaten the credibility and safety of the 2027 General Election.
The United Alternative Government of Kenya and Linda Mwananchi made the appeal in a joint statement issued on Wednesday, August 19, calling on the ICC Prosecutor to closely monitor developments and conduct a preliminary assessment under the Rome Statute.
The coalition said recent attacks targeting political figures, supporters and other citizens raised concerns about whether Kenya's institutions would be able to guarantee a peaceful electoral environment.
Among the incidents cited were reported attacks involving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in Rongai, Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang'i's team in Mulot, and violence surrounding Linda Mwananchi activities in Homa Bay and Keumbu in Kisii County.
The leaders want the ICC to determine whether the alleged incidents meet the threshold for examination under the Rome Statute, particularly if evidence points to widespread or systematic attacks against civilians.
They further said that should evidence establish that people in authority organised, financed, directed or tolerated such attacks, those responsible should face international scrutiny. The coalition specifically named President William Ruto in its call for possible investigation if such evidence emerges.
The demand marks an escalation in the opposition's response to reported political violence, moving the issue beyond domestic political debate to the question of international accountability.
The leaders also challenged Kenyan institutions to act before the country enters the 2027 campaign period, saying electoral violence and intimidation could undermine citizens' ability to participate freely.
The coalition called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to work with other constitutional institutions to safeguard Kenyans' right to vote peacefully and without fear.
They also called for independent investigations into the reported attacks, particularly allegations that some incidents occurred in the presence of, or within the operational reach of, police officers.
The ICC appeal comes against the backdrop of Kenya's previous experience with post-election violence, which resulted in an ICC investigation following the 2007-2008 crisis. President Ruto was among those who previously faced charges at the court, although proceedings against him were later terminated.
The opposition coalition has also proposed a People's Forum for Electoral Preparedness, scheduled for October 9, 2026, to bring together citizens and stakeholders ahead of the 2027 elections.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga, former Attorney General Justin Muturi and Caroli Omondi have been named to coordinate the forum.
The coalition said the initiative is intended to strengthen public preparedness and create a platform for discussions on protecting the integrity of the electoral process.
