A major stride in the fight against mob justice in Western Kenya was made this week with the official launch of the Rights in Action Coalition (RIACO), an organization dedicated to curbing the escalating cases of extrajudicial violence in Vihiga, Homa Bay, Kisii, and Siaya counties.
Speaking at the launch event, RIACO Chief Executive Officer Edgar Abuto said the organization would work closely with the police, local leaders, and the bodaboda sector to create safer communities by encouraging lawful action against suspected criminals.
“The concern of many innocent lives being lost due to mob injustice is why we are here,” Abuto stated. “We are bringing stakeholders together to find lasting solutions. People must report criminals to the authorities—not take the law into their own hands.”
Mob justice has remained a persistent threat in many parts of Western Kenya, with numerous reports of suspects being attacked or killed by angry crowds without due process.
Kisumu County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo, who officiated the launch as the chief guest, strongly condemned the practice. He emphasized the fundamental rights of suspects, including the right to life, a fair hearing, and access to justice.
“We appeal to members of the public to never take the law into their own hands,” he said. “The rule of natural justice holds that a person is innocent until proven guilty. When a mob acts, it assumes the roles of police, prosecutor, and judge all at once. That is dangerous and unlawful.”
Leparmorijo further urged lawmakers and community leaders to discourage vigilante behavior and instead build trust in law enforcement systems. He warned that such acts could easily escalate to serious crimes like murder or maiming.
Abuto echoed these sentiments and called on law enforcement agencies to step up their efforts in rebuilding public trust.
“We want the police to be our partners in this campaign,” he said. “They need to actively engage communities and regain the confidence of the people.”
The bodaboda sector, often caught in the crosshairs of mob incidents, has also pledged its support. Kisumu County Bodaboda Chairman Jacob Ochieng’ assured that his members will be at the forefront of promoting peace and lawful conduct.
“We are here as peace ambassadors,” Ochieng’ said. “We will educate our members to report incidents to the police. We are committed to changing the mindset and behavior of our people.”
With rising concerns about the growing normalization of mob justice, RIACO’s launch marks a renewed effort to restore the rule of law and protect human rights across the region.
