Governor tells off Ruto allies over their attacks on Matiang'i and police

Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui has accused MPs allied to Deputy President William Ruto (pictured) of being insincere in their criticism against Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i and the National Police Service (NPS).

Mr Kinyanjui told off Tangatanga MPs in the presence of Dr Ruto during a funeral service at Nakuru Showground on Thursday.

“We should not condemn violence when it goes against us but when it favours us we clap. Violence begets violence. It is up to us all to behave in the right manner at all times,” said Kinyanjui.

During the event, Ruto hit out at Matiang'i for claiming the Judiciary was frustrating security agencies by releasing suspects on too lenient bail terms.

"This is so frustrating even for the Inspector General. It is becoming a ritual for police officers. A leader grabbed a gun from their bodyguard and shot someone dead. He is still free because he was released on bail," said Matiang'i.

The remarks came days after four MPs who were arrested over violence during Kabuchai by-elections were released on Sh50,000 cash bail.

Dr Ruto defended the Judiciary and the NPS, saying that they should not act based on instructions and wishes of a few individuals with political interests.

Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen had earlier criticised the police for reportedly triggering violence during the recent by-elections where Tangatanga allies were attacked.