Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has urged for tolerance following the commencement of public participation exercises in various regions, some of which turned violent. In a statement on Friday, October 4, 2024, Sifuna emphasized the importance of allowing participants to express their opinions without resorting to violence, condemning the shameful scenes witnessed in some areas where individuals faced aggression for voicing differing views.
“There is absolutely no reason for violence. There can never be justification for violence against anyone. Let everyone air their views unhindered because that is what democracy demands. The scenes from some of the public participation forums across the country are shameful and must be condemned. Ni maoni tu si vita,” Sifuna stated.
His remarks came after activist and civic educator Morara Kebaso was injured during a public participation exercise at the Bomas of Kenya. Kebaso was attacked by a section of the audience armed with chairs and fists before being whisked away for safety.
Initially denied entry to the venue, Kebaso was assaulted after managing to get inside the Bomas when chaos erupted. He was shielded from the onslaught by a small group of supporters, but they were soon overwhelmed and rushed him out for safety. He later reported suffering injuries from the attack and was on his way to seek medical treatment.
“I was barred from entering Bomas at the gate. When I finally got in, I was denied the mic at the Bomas floor. Chaos erupted. I am hurt. Headed to hospital. I live to speak another day,” Kebaso said.
The public participation exercise was initiated across the country after National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula directed the clerk of Parliament to publish venues to fulfill the constitutional requirement for legally conducting an impeachment hearing. This followed the formal tabling of the impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua by Kibwezi West MP Eckomas Mutuse on October 1, 2024, with 80 percent of MPs supporting the motion.
Gachagua faces allegations including gross violation of the constitution, gross misconduct, suspicious acquisition of property, and insubordination to the President. He, however, claims that the impeachment is a scheme by detractors opposed to his message of unity in the Mount Kenya region.
