In a decisive move to strengthen national security, Kenya has officially designated the Muslim Brotherhood and Hizb-ur-Tahrir as terrorist organizations under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (Cap. 59B). The announcement, published in Legal Notice No. 157 of the Kenya Gazette Supplement on September 19, 2025, marks a significant escalation in Kenya’s efforts to preempt radicalization and extremist activities within its borders.
The declaration, issued by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, criminalizes membership, support, financing, propaganda, and association with the two groups, effective immediately. It was made under Section 3(3) of the Act, which empowers the government to freeze assets, ban meetings, prosecute affiliates, and authorize extensive security operations against proscribed entities.
“This measure is a proactive step to safeguard our national security from emerging extremist threats,” a government spokesperson stated.
Global Context and Regional Relevance
Kenya now joins nations such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, and Russia in listing the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization. Founded in Egypt in 1928, the Brotherhood is widely seen as the ideological nucleus of modern political Islam, with a history of influencing radical groups across the Middle East and North Africa.
Hizb-ur-Tahrir, although less militarized, has also been under scrutiny for advocating the re-establishment of a global Islamic caliphate, often through anti-democratic means.
A Strategic Preemptive Measure
The government’s move comes against the backdrop of a decade-long battle with al-Shabaab, the Somalia-based al-Qaeda affiliate responsible for high-profile attacks such as:
- Westgate Mall siege (2013)
- Garissa University massacre (2015)
- DusitD2 hotel attack (2019)
In response, Kenya has invested heavily in:
- Cross-border military operations
- Improved intelligence sharing
- Border security enhancements
- Community deradicalization programs
The new declaration is designed to block extremist ideologies before they gain a foothold in Kenya, complementing existing anti-terror frameworks and reinforcing the country’s reputation as a frontline state in the global war on terror.
Legal and Operational Implications
Under Section 3(3) of the Act, security agencies are now empowered to:
- Investigate suspected cells
- Detain suspects under extended periods (with court oversight)
- Dismantle logistical and financial networks
- Pursue legal action against sympathizers or enablers
The designation carries no expiry date and will remain in force until explicitly revoked by a court or the Cabinet Secretary.
