Kindiki, Murkomen call out Azimio over violent protests

By Peter Ochieng

Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Interior Kithure Kindiki and his transport counterpart Kipchumba Murkomen are not happy.

On Wednesday evening, the two issued strong statements against what they termed as Azimio's violent protests, witnessed in various parts of the country.

Kindiki called out opposition chief Raila Odinga for being the "architect of lawlessness and impunity," at the same time referring to him as the "poster boy for violent politics."

"The architect of lawlessness and impunity, together with his co-conspirators have once again overseen a day of shameless and unprovoked looting of private premises, illegal obstruction of economic activities, and extensive damage of major public assets and infrastructure built on the sweat of the taxes of the people of Kenya."

He warned that people who took part in the demonstrations, both directly and indirectly, will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

"The Government has mobilized all the law enforcement agencies of the State and the institutions of our country’s criminal justice system to conclude investigations urgently and proceed to the arrest and prosecution of all those involved in the planning and execution of the crimes committed today, including those who funded or otherwise aided or abetted the offenders," he added.

In a separate statement, CS Murkomen lashed out at demonstrators for vandalising part of the Nairobi Expressway during the protests.

"As a country, we cannot normalise such ads of violence, lawlessness and vandalism committed on the pretext of exercising political rights."

"We have asked the Office of the Director of Criminal Investigations, through the Office of the Inspector General of Police, to carry out thorough investigations and ensure the perpetrators of such heinous acts, many of who were captured on CCTV cameras and by the media, are apprehended and punished," he said.

Over five people were shot dead, several arrested and scores injured during the demos.

Odinga condemned police for using force against otherwise 'peaceful protesters.'

Azimio leaders are expected to issue the way foward to their supporters in the course of the day.