The rise of "goonism" in Kenyan politics 14th April, 2026 Kenya’s political landscape is facing a troubling shift one marked by the growing use of organized groups of youths, often referred to as “goons,” to intimidate opponents, disrupt events, and influence public perception. In recent months, incidents across cities like Nairobi and Kisumu have highlighted a pattern: political gatherings turning chaotic, leaders attacked, and businesses caught in the crossfire.