Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen of facilitating and financing groups of hired goons, allegedly intended to infiltrate and disrupt planned June 25 memorial protests. The claims come amid heightened political tensions as Kenyans commemorate victims of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.
Speaking during a press briefing, Gachagua questioned Murkomen's recent remarks that security agencies had intelligence reports indicating criminal elements were planning to exploit the demonstrations. He argued that if authorities were aware of such plans, they should have acted to prevent them rather than issue warnings. Gachagua further alleged that state-linked operatives would be allowed to cause chaos before opposition figures are blamed for the violence.
The former Deputy President also raised concerns about the independence of the National Police Service, accusing the Interior CS of interfering in operational matters that fall under the mandate of the Inspector General of Police.
Additionally, Gachagua warned that any violence against peaceful demonstrators could attract international scrutiny, including possible investigations by the International Criminal Court (ICC). However, he did not provide evidence to support his allegations.
The government has maintained that security measures surrounding the demonstrations are intended to protect lives and property while ensuring citizens can exercise their constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
Speaking during a press briefing, Gachagua questioned Murkomen's recent remarks that security agencies had intelligence reports indicating criminal elements were planning to exploit the demonstrations. He argued that if authorities were aware of such plans, they should have acted to prevent them rather than issue warnings. Gachagua further alleged that state-linked operatives would be allowed to cause chaos before opposition figures are blamed for the violence.
The former Deputy President also raised concerns about the independence of the National Police Service, accusing the Interior CS of interfering in operational matters that fall under the mandate of the Inspector General of Police.
Additionally, Gachagua warned that any violence against peaceful demonstrators could attract international scrutiny, including possible investigations by the International Criminal Court (ICC). However, he did not provide evidence to support his allegations.
The government has maintained that security measures surrounding the demonstrations are intended to protect lives and property while ensuring citizens can exercise their constitutional right to peaceful assembly.