We Will Not Tolerate Violent Protests, PS Omollo Warns

The government has yet again affirmed its stance on Politicians accused of inciting violent protests. 

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo on Wednesday, July 26, said that security agencies will not hesitate to take action against those who perpetrate violence and property destruction during protests. Omollo said that while the Constitution upholds the right to protest it must be done in accordance with the law. Omollo has attributed recent acts of hooliganism during opposition demonstrations to criminal elements who have taken advantage of the situation. 

“We cannot use the freedom to picket to trample on the rights of the rest of Kenyans who do not want to participate in the demonstrations. It shows the highest level of primitivity and we must move away from it,” he said. 

He urged leaders involved in demonstrations to be mindful of the rights of other citizens. Speaking in Bondo, Siaya County, Omollo proclaimed that the government will not tolerate anti-government protests that involve the destruction of property, the torching of police vehicles, and the injury of officers. He reiterated that any illegal demonstrations will not be permitted and that the police must be notified of any planned activities.

Omollo has warned that anyone who attempts to break the law will face the consequences. The PS had visited  Bondo Township Chief Walter Omollo's home following the looting and torching of the latter's home by angry protesters after the alleged shooting of Dave Agan by the police. Meanwhile, a Legio Maria clergyman has lauded the prospects for dialogue between President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga.

According to Nyaperah from the Legio Maria Diocese of Lugari, if the two leaders agree to engage in talks, they would be benefiting millions of Kenyans. Nyaperah urged the President to also extend the olive branch to his predecessor Kenyatta.