National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has sharply criticised religious leaders, foreign envoys, and retired Chief Justice David Maraga for their roles or lack thereof in the wake of violent protests that rocked the country on Wednesday.
Speaking at the Likuyani Women Empowerment Programme in Matunda, Kakamega County, Wetangula expressed disappointment over what he described as a conspicuous silence from the clergy and diplomatic community, who had previously backed the Gen Z-led demonstrations. He questioned whether their support extended to the destruction, deaths, and chaos that followed the protests.
“I want to hear from the envoys and clergy was the mayhem, looting, and violence we witnessed on Wednesday what they envisioned when they encouraged the government to allow the protests?” Wetangula asked.
He noted that while demonstrations are a constitutional right, the violence that engulfed parts of Nairobi and other towns betrayed the spirit of peaceful protest. He called for a balanced and responsible approach from all leaders, especially those who wield significant influence.
Drawing comparisons to the United States, Wetang’ula highlighted that violent demonstrators in Western countries are swiftly prosecuted. He challenged foreign envoys to apply the same standards when commenting on Kenya’s internal matters.
In an unusual rebuke, the Speaker also took aim at retired Chief Justice David Maraga for joining the protests. Wetang’ula said Maraga’s presence at the rallies, which later spiraled into looting and chaos, was unfortunate and risked diminishing the stature of his former office.
“As someone who has held one of the highest offices in our judiciary, Justice Maraga should be a role model, not a participant in scenes that later led to lawlessness,” Wetang’ula remarked.
He called for speedy investigations into the protests, urging security agencies to bring all culprits to book. The Speaker also condemned reports of sexual assault during the unrest and stressed that justice must be swift and firm.
Wetang’ula’s remarks underline growing concern among political leaders over the trajectory of the Gen Z protest movement, which has sparked national debate on governance, civic responsibility, and public accountability.
