NAIROBI, Kenya – In the wake of unprecedented civil unrest on Tuesday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof Kithure Kindiki issued a statement condemning the violent turn of events that has gripped Nairobi and several other towns across Kenya.
The unrest, initially sparked by a punitive Finance Bill 2024, resulted in significant loss of life and destruction of property worth millions of shillings.
An attempt to burn down Parliament Buildings further escalated the chaos. Police have been accused of turning a blind eye on the hired goons by a section of the organizers.
The demonstrations, initially a democratic expression against the contentious Finance Bill, led to the bill’s termination.
However, the cessation of the bill did little to quell the violence. Criminal gangs have since hijacked the protests, posing a grave threat to public safety, the CS said.
Criminal gangs said to have been hired by politicians have used the guise of peaceful protests to commit arson, obstruct public transport, and terrorize the people of Kenya.
Prof Kindiki highlighted the professionalism and restraint displayed by the police in managing the highly provocative situations that arose during these violent riots.
Human Rights organizations have however used police of using excessive force while handling peaceful protestors.
He commended law enforcement officers for their dedication to preventing crime and protecting lives and property amidst the turmoil.
However, he assured that any allegations of unlawful conduct by law enforcement would be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate actions would be taken.
The Interior CS emphasized that security agencies remain vigilant, ready to intercept and thwart any harm to the public and attempts to attack critical infrastructure.
He assured the public that the government is conducting ongoing evidential analysis to bring the planners, executors, and financiers of large-scale arson, violent robberies, and other felonious crimes to justice.
Prof Kindiki expressed deep concern over reports that the organizers of the recent violence in Nairobi, Mombasa, and other parts of the country are planning to repeat their chaotic acts on Thursday and Sunday, with potential for more frequent disturbances in the future.
He declared that the reign of terror imposed by these criminal gangs must end at whatever cost.
“The Government is determined to stop criminals aiming to terrorize the public and harm Kenya, notwithstanding attempts to politicize crime,” Prof Kindiki stated firmly.
He called for unity in the face of these challenges, urging the public to support law enforcement efforts to restore peace and order.
The unrest has left a trail of devastation, with businesses looted, properties destroyed, and lives disrupted.
The government’s stance is clear: the violence and plunder must cease immediately.
The commitment to safeguard the sovereignty and security of Kenya is unwavering, and decisive actions will be taken to ensure that peace prevails.
As the nation braces for potential further unrest, the government’s message is unequivocal: anarchy, violence, and plunder will not be tolerated.
