National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has strongly condemned the violence and destruction that marred the recent Gen Z-led protests, urging for swift action against perpetrators and a return to national unity and dignity.
Speaking in Samburu North and Samburu West constituencies during church fundraisers, Wetangula expressed particular outrage over the assault of a female police officer during the June 26 demonstrations. “We saw some demonstrators attack a female officer, beat her up, and step on her head. That policewoman is a fellow Kenyan someone’s daughter, sister, or mother,” he said, describing the incident as a disturbing erosion of humanity.
While affirming the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and petition, the Speaker stressed that violence, destruction of property, and assaults on law enforcement officers have no place in a democratic society. “Everyone has a right to picket and present petitions to government agencies such as Parliament,” Wetang’ula said. “But there is no law that allows violent protests.”
The protests, driven largely by youth discontent over governance and economic issues, resulted in at least 19 deaths and more than 530 injuries, according to human rights groups.
Wetang’ula also urged political leaders to refrain from divisive rhetoric as the country inches closer to the 2027 general elections. “The opposition are not enemies. There’s simply a difference of opinion. Let every leader lead with humility, respect, and grace,” he said.
Addressing public dissatisfaction over delays in delivering campaign promises, Wetang’ula asked Kenyans to be patient with President William Ruto’s administration. He cited the reduction in fertiliser costs as one of the government’s achievements. “He’s not even been in office for three years. Judge him fairly, and more importantly, pray for him,” he appealed.
Calling for peace and reconciliation, especially in conflict-prone regions like the Rift Valley, the Speaker emphasised that development is impossible without peace. “Peace is not an option it is a necessity,” he concluded.
Wetang’ula’s remarks come at a critical moment, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of the protests and a growing demand for accountability and reform.
