State vows to contain protests as Eric Kiraithe says armed individuals will face the law

Government Spokesman Eric Kiraithe. PHOTO: STANDARD

NAIROBI: The Government will not relent in its ongoing crackdown against individuals inciting others to violence regardless of their status in society, Government Spokesman Eric Kiraithe has said. Mr Kiraithe, who spoke yesterday during the weekly Press briefing, warned that apart from hatemongers, the State will narrow down on violent protesters, who will be held personally liable for their actions.

“It will no longer be business as usual. Anybody who carries a machete, a stone or any other weapon during demonstrations will be dealt with according to the law,” said Kiraithe. Seven legislators were arrested early this week for allegedly engaging in hate-speech, and their case is pending determination. They include Machakos Senator Johnstone Muthama and MPs Timothy Bosire (Kitutu Masaba), Aisha Jumwa (Kilifi) and Florence Mutua (Busia).

Others are Moses Kuria (Gatundu South), Ferdinand Waititu (Kabete) and Kimani Ngunjiri (Bahati).

“It is not only the big fish that will be targeted. The government will not allow this country to burn because of a few individuals,” added Kiraithe.

He faulted Opposition leaders for piling pressure on the government to set free the legislators, terming the ultimatum issued by CORD chief Raila Odinga as unfortunate.