NAIROBI, Kenya- Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has condemned the arrest of Mukurweini Member of Parliament John Kaguchia, accusing the government of selectively applying the law against opposition leaders.
In a statement issued on Monday, the former Vice President described Kaguchia’s arrest as arbitrary and linked it to the legislator’s public remarks, arguing that the Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to freedom of expression.
“I strongly condemn the arbitrary arrest of Mukurweini MP, Hon. John Kaguchia, over his public remarks,” Kalonzo said.
The MP is accused of making inciting remarks following remarks made in Kieni, Nyeri County, during a rally led by the DCP Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua.
The opposition leader maintained that while leaders have a responsibility to safeguard peace and avoid incitement, the law should be enforced impartially regardless of political affiliation.
“Let me be clear: we do not support incitement, from anyone. Every leader has a duty to protect peace and to respect the rule of law. The Constitution guarantees every Kenyan freedom of expression. The law must be applied fairly, not selectively,” he stated.
The Wiper leader went on to accuse President William Ruto’s administration of applying different standards to government officials and opposition politicians.
He said that remarks such as “shoot and kill” directed at Kenyan youth had gone unpunished, while senior government figures, including the ruling party’s Secretary General and a Cabinet Secretary, had made inflammatory and tribal statements without facing legal consequences.
“Why the double standard?” Kalonzo posed.
He argued that justice should not depend on whether an individual supports the government or belongs to the opposition.
“Justice in Kenya cannot depend on whether you are pro-government or in the opposition. If incitement is the standard, apply it to everyone; Mukurweini MP or Cabinet Secretary, it does not matter. Selective justice is not justice. It has no place in our democracy,” he said.
Kaguchia was arrested by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) after leaving the Royal Media Services headquarters in Nairobi, where he had remained for several hours claiming security officers were waiting outside to apprehend him following a live television interview.
