‘I Won’t Be Silenced’: Ken Maswai Speaks for the First Time After Alleged Attack by Political Goons
Oscar Sudi, who has represented Kapseret Constituency since 2013, has not publicly commented on the allegations.
Ken Maswai (center) with his wife (left) and human rights activist Kimutai Kirui (right) shortly after recording a statement at Langas Police Station. Photo by Kemuma Achieng.
A Kapseret resident, Ken Maswai, has spoken publicly for the first time about a violent attack that left him hospitalized, alleging he was assaulted by individuals linked to a prominent politician in Uasin Gishu County.
Maswai, who recorded a statement at Langas Police Station and obtained a P3 form for the injuries, says the assault occurred on Sunday, November 2, around 7:10 p.m., near St. George’s area, close to the Eldoret International Airport.
“I was heading home after spending time with one political aspirant for Kapseret. On my way, two cars—a Prado and a Subaru, both without number plates—blocked my way. Six men came out carrying sticks and one pointed a gun at me. They beat me until I lost consciousness. I woke up in a hospital bed,” Maswai recounted, still walking with difficulty after surgery.
According to Maswai, three days before the incident he received a phone call from Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi, warning him against commenting on development issues in the constituency.
“He asked me what I wanted, and I told him I was only expressing my thoughts about the lack of development, especially the poor state of our roads. He told me to stop, but I refused. I told him I would continue speaking about it,” Maswai said.
Maswai, who has become an outspoken critic of the MP, vowed not to be silenced.
“I want to assure the people of Kapseret, especially the youth, that I am ready to die for speaking the truth. I will not be cowed. Oscar Sudi has been MP for over 13 years, but I will continue speaking about the issues that affect our people,” he added.
Calls for Investigation
Human rights activist Kimutai Kirui, who assisted Maswai in recording his statement, condemned the attack and called for swift government action.
“We have seen a surge in political goons in Uasin Gishu who are operating above the law with protection from political godfathers. Some even threaten police officers with transfers when they perform their duties diligently,” said Kirui.
He urged Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to take decisive action against political violence in the county.
“If police fail to investigate this matter properly, Kapseret residents will hold peaceful demonstrations within 14 days to demand justice for Ken Maswai,” Kirui warned.
Police Response
Kapseret Sub-County Police Commander Zephania Kamuren confirmed that investigations into the incident are ongoing.
“We have launched thorough and impartial investigations. The victim has recorded a statement, and police are following up on crucial leads,” Kamuren said.
The incident has sparked public outrage in Uasin Gishu County, where residents have raised concerns about the growing culture of political intimidation.
Oscar Sudi, who has represented Kapseret Constituency since 2013, has not publicly commented on the allegations.
Human rights groups and local leaders have demanded accountability, saying the assault highlights rising impunity among politically connected individuals in the region.
Maswai, who is recovering from multiple injuries, says he has distanced himself from statements made by some of his family members, maintaining that he will personally pursue justice.
“The people who attacked me are known to me. I want the police to arrest and charge them. This is not just about me—it’s about every citizen’s right to speak without fear,” he stated.
Growing Political Tension
Observers warn that if left unchecked, the Kapseret incident could deepen political divisions and embolden violent networks ahead of the 2027 elections.
Human rights organizations are urging authorities to treat the case as a test of the government’s commitment to protecting freedom of expression and curbing political thuggery
About Author
