Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa has stirred political waters by calling for the arrest of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of inciting the youth during the deadly June 25 protests. Barasa, along with a section of pro-government lawmakers, condemned the violence and destruction that marred the protests, which were originally led by Gen Z activists but later appeared to take a political turn.
Speaking a day after the nationwide demonstrations, Barasa claimed that restrictions imposed by the courts on police use of force rendered officers powerless against mobs. “The guns they carry are now just toys,” he said. Barasa held Gachagua responsible for encouraging street demonstrations and insisted that the law must be applied equally, regardless of office.
Rongo MP Mark Nyamita echoed Barasa’s remarks, criticizing the political class for infiltrating what was meant to be a youth-led movement. “Will we have another anniversary next year now that more people have died?” he asked, urging Kenyans to use the ballot in 2027 rather than violent protests.
Migori Woman Representative Fatuma Zainab took a harder stance, describing the demonstrations as “a thinly veiled attempt to overthrow the government,” suggesting that such acts border on subversion.
Other lawmakers, while acknowledging the frustrations among youth, called for calm. Nyaribari Chache MP Japheth Nyakundi urged dialogue, warning that destruction would ultimately harm the Gen Zs themselves. “If we’ve wronged the youth, we are ready to talk,” he said.
Elgeyo Marakwet Woman Representative Lillian Syioi questioned the silence of civil society amid the destruction of private property and threats to law enforcement officers, stating that justice must be served for all, including the police.
Emurua Dikirr MP Johanna Ngeno warned that the ongoing unrest could threaten national unity. “We understand the frustrations, but pushing for regime change outside the Constitution is unacceptable,” he said.
The lawmakers’ remarks signal growing concern within the ruling coalition over the direction and potential consequences of the protests, even as questions linger over political responsibility and the government’s response.
