By Daniel Otieno, Kakamega
Top Kenya Kwanza politicians have launched a scathing attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, calling for his arrest over his alleged role in hijacking recent anti-government protests and inciting violence.
Speaking during a tour of Likuyani in Kakamega County, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula also lashed out at sections of the Church and foreign diplomats for what he termed as “hypocritical support” for the youth-led demonstrations, warning that their backing risked undermining national peace and order.
“I saw the church and foreign ambassadors supporting the demonstrations,” said Wetang’ula. “I’ve been a foreign minister for 10 years and I know how foreign affairs operate. Now that the protests turned violent, where are their voices? Was the mayhem, rape, looting, and killing what they were cheering on?”
The Speaker urged Chief Justice Martha Koome to act decisively and ensure perpetrators of the chaos are held accountable. Citing examples from the United States, Wetang’ula said, “In the U.S., 12 people were shot dead while storming the White House. No one questioned it. That is how serious nations handle lawlessness.”
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei escalated the rhetoric, directly calling for Gachagua’s arrest. “Gachagua led goons who disrupted the genuine cause of our young people. He must be arrested and charged for inciting anarchy,” said Cherargei. “Treason includes burning government vehicles, looting, and killing citizens.”
Cherargei asked the Director of Public Prosecutions and police to open a file on Gachagua, saying: “Let him be sent to Kamiti so that his chapter in dirty politics is closed once and for all.”
National Assembly Majority Whip Silvanus Osoro supported the call, saying that while peaceful protests are constitutionally protected, violence is not.
“Youths have a right to picket, but once that turns into burning roads and looting supermarkets, it becomes criminal,” Osoro said. “If Ruto is overthrown, who takes over? Prof. Kindiki? Then the military? Do we really want to take that path?”
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot added his voice, urging the judiciary to impose stiffer penalties to deter repeat offenders. “On June 25, the country witnessed lawlessness. In the U.S., such people are jailed. Here, they’re released on Sh500 bonds. That’s why it keeps happening.”
