Opposition leaders including Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa have sharply criticized the government’s handling of protests, accusing it of fostering a culture of impunity, state violence, and constitutional violations.
Addressing the press outside the Holy Family Basilica on Wednesday morning, the leaders reaffirmed their support for the ongoing Gen Z-led protests and announced plans to commemorate those killed during previous demonstrations.
Recalling the events of 2023, Musyoka said, “We were not even allowed to gather in places of worship like we have today. We thank the Catholic Church for standing with the people.”
He drew parallels between Kenya’s situation and Haiti, warning, “You cannot let gangs run the streets while police collaborate with them. We will not allow this country to descend into such lawlessness.”
Musyoka condemned what he called unconstitutional abductions and extrajudicial arrests of protest leaders. “It is wicked to abduct citizens without warrants. We must say no to this and seek legal redress where necessary,” he said.
The Wiper party’s leader also used the platform to declare June 25 as Youth Transparency Day, praising the courage of young Kenyans who continue to demand accountability.
“It is amazing how one youth can make a post and cause such panic among those in power,” he remarked, referring to the impact of social media activism in mobilizing peaceful protests.
Reflecting on the deadly 2023 protests, Musyoka said, “About 60 people were killed. We buried them everywhere. Some of us were nearly killed in Mathare. I was even placed under house arrest.”
He shared the heartbreaking story of a young protester named Brian, “He had just finished school and was saving to build a house for his mother. His story is just one among many.”
Musyoka also criticized the government’s response to this year’s youth-led protests. “In 2024, once again the youth took to the streets peacefully — armed only with bottles of water. Today, we are here to remember them,” he said, condemning what he described as state-sponsored brutality and abductions.
He also questioned the government’s transparency on key issues. “We still want answers on the Mbolea subsidy scandal, the Adani deals. Who paid what? They think the opposition is weak — bado hawajaona,” he warned.
Former Defence Cabinet Secretary and Democratic Action Party (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa shared Musyoka’s sentiments, accusing the government of ruling through fear. “This level of deployment speaks to a paranoid regime,” he said. “But as the people’s opposition, we stand with the people — not the powerful.”
Wamalwa urged President William Ruto to allow families who lost loved ones during protests to mourn peacefully. “We are marching to Parliament with these families to lay flowers. The least the president can do is show respect. These are children you killed.”
The leaders also condemned the looting of businesses during the protests, blaming organized criminal elements. “It was not the protesters — it was organized gangs who raided shops. Governance in this country has collapsed,” said Musyoka.
