The government has issued a stern warning against continued violent protests that have erupted across the country, following the termination of the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
Kithure Kindiki, Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, declared in a press release on Tuesday that the government will take all necessary measures to restore order and protect public safety.
On June 25, Nairobi and several other towns experienced unprecedented civil unrest, resulting in the loss of lives and destruction of property worth billions of shillings. Protesters, initially demonstrating against the Finance Bill, escalated their actions to include attempts to burn down Parliament Buildings. Despite the subsequent withdrawal of the Bill, Kindiki noted that “hordes of marauding criminal gangs” have continued to exploit the situation, causing further chaos and violence.
“The unrest, legitimately initiated as the democratic expression of public disapproval of the Finance Bill 2024, led to the termination of the Bill,” Kindiki stated. However, he emphasized that the continuation of violent activities under the guise of peaceful protests is unacceptable and poses a significant threat to public safety and order.
Law enforcement agencies have been commended for their professionalism and restraint in handling the volatile situation. Nonetheless, the government acknowledged that there have been allegations of misconduct by some officers, which will be investigated thoroughly. “Claims of some instances of unlawful conduct by law enforcement officers will be investigated and appropriate action taken,” Kindiki assured.
Security measures have been heightened, with agencies remaining vigilant to prevent further harm to the public and protect critical infrastructure. The government has pledged to bring those responsible for orchestrating and financing the large-scale arson and violent robberies to justice. “Upon completion of the ongoing evidential analysis, the Government assures the public that the planners, executors, and financiers of large-scale arson, violent robberies, and other felonious crimes will be brought to justice,” Kindiki asserted.
Despite the government’s efforts, reports indicate that the organizers of the recent violence are planning further disturbances later this week. The government has expressed its determination to end the reign of terror imposed by these criminal gangs.
“The organisers of today’s orgy of violence in parts of Nairobi, Mombasa, and several other parts of the Country are reportedly planning to repeat their anarchic chaos and cruel plunder again on Thursday and Sunday this week,” Kindiki warned. “This reign of terror against the people of Kenya and the impunity of dangerous criminal gangs must end at whatever cost.”
