President Uhuru Kenyatta calls for sober debate on security

NAIROBI, KENYA: President Uhuru Kenyatta on Friday cautioned politicians against sideshows in security matters.

The president noted that insecurity affects all Kenyans and needed collective responsibility from across the political divide.

“Kenya is fighting proxy war and we expect solidarity, robust engagement to confront twin challenges of internal and external terrorism,” he said. “If you have issues with steps taken by government in dealing with terrorism, use relevant institutions instead of engaging in sideshows,” he said.

The president noted that parts of security amendments bill meant well for Kenya and required support for the country to move forward in stabilising security.

“No freedom has been curtailed through the proposed amendment of the security bill, what we are against is for instance the publication of images of terror victims in our media, it is not right, it offers strength to our enemies,”  he said.

President said current insecurity has both local and international dimensions urging international community to support Kenya where possible.

He was speaking during Jamhuri day celebrations at Nyayo Stadium.

Presidents John Mahama of Ghana, Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, and Yoweri Museveni of Uganda attended the occasion.

The three arrived at around 11am ahead of host President Uhuru Kenyatta who arrived at 11.30 am. Deputy President William Ruto and Amina Mohammed received Kagame, Museveni and Mahama.

Other key leaders who attended the celebration include Cord leaders Raila Odinga, Moses Wetangula, and National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi.

Thousands of Kenyans braved the morning chill to mark the most important holiday in Kenya's calender.