Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has urged Kenya’s security agencies to uphold the rights of citizens during protests, emphasizing that demonstrators are exercising their constitutional freedoms. His remarks follow heightened tensions and widespread demonstrations across the country in recent weeks.
Speaking in a video interview, Mudavadi appealed to the police not to injure civilians during peaceful protests. He also called on protesters to act responsibly and respect the rights and property of others.
“Let us ponder and reflect on some of our actions, as we also ask the security agencies not to injure citizens when they express their constitutional right,” Mudavadi said. “We also, in equal measure, request the citizens, when you protest, please also respect the rights of others.”
He underscored that mutual respect between citizens and the state is fundamental to building a democratic and civilized society. The Prime CS cited the case of the Meru Cooperative Society, which suffered significant losses after being targeted by unruly protesters, as an example of how demonstrations can inadvertently harm innocent parties.
Mudavadi’s remarks come in the wake of President William Ruto’s firm directive to police on how to handle violent protesters. Speaking in Kilimani during the inspection of a police housing project, President Ruto said that while police must not kill innocent civilians, they are permitted to use force against criminals who destroy property.
“A person who is going to burn another person’s business and property, such a person should be shot in the legs, taken to the hospital and then to court,” Ruto stated. “Police should not shoot citizens to kill, but the criminals should be dealt with.”
The President also warned leaders allegedly funding and inciting protests that they will face legal consequences. “We are coming after you. You cannot sponsor violence in the Republic of Kenya and expect to go scot-free,” he warned.
As protests continue to grip parts of the country, both leaders have reiterated the need for law and order, dialogue, and the protection of Kenya’s democratic values.
