UDA calls for prosecution against suspects who invaded Gen Z demos

UDA SG Cleophas Malala condemned the violence witnessed against peaceful protesters and business owners.

In Summary
  • Malala assured the Gen Zs that the government is listening to their voices and concerns.
  • He, however, alleged that certain individuals within the political class and some NGOs have infiltrated the demonstrations.
UDA Secretary General, Cleophas Malala during press conference at UDA offices on July 25, 2023.
UDA Secretary General, Cleophas Malala during press conference at UDA offices on July 25, 2023.
Image: FILE

The United Democratic Alliance wants suspects who infiltrated the Tuesday protests causing violence to be prosecuted.

UDA secretary general Cleophas Malala condemned the violence witnessed against peaceful protesters and business owners calling for action.

Malala thanked Gen Zs for maintaining peaceful demonstrations urging them to be vigilant of infiltrators.

"UDA condemns in the strongest terms the violence meted on innocent citizens and the looting that took place during the demonstrations. Such actions undermine the spirit of peaceful protest and hurt our Nation," Malala said.

"We call upon the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution to expedite their investigations into the violent incidents that marred the demonstrations."

The SG said security agencies should identify and prosecute the financiers, sponsors, and perpetrators responsible for funding the goons who infiltrated the peaceful protests, resulting in violence and looting.

The UDA boss said that security agencies must hold to account those who undermine peaceful demonstrations by inciting violence and causing destruction.

"We believe that swift and decisive action by the DCI and ODPP will serve as a deterrent to such actions in the future and restore confidence in our justice system," he added.

"To this end, we urge all relevant investigatory agencies to intensify their investigation into any elements of police excesses and professional misconduct or negligence. Kindly speed up investigations and bring perpetrators to book."

Malala assured the Gen Zs that the government is listening to their voices and concerns.

He, however, alleged that certain individuals within the political class and some NGOs had infiltrated the demonstrations.

Malala claimed that the individuals have hijacked it for their selfish goals.

"The tone of the Gen Z demonstrations was nonpolitical and non-ethnicized. It is a shame that certain rejected political figures are hoping to reap political capital from this state of affairs," he added.

He urged all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and peaceful means of expression to foster unity and progress within the nation.

Malala said that a good idea can be made better and sharpened by divergent opinions to make it the best.

"Our President is dedicated to engaging with Kenyans in a structured manner, prioritizing the best interests of the country. We urge all Kenyans to reflect on the words of our national anthem and exercise patriotism during these challenging times," Malala said.

UDA expressed its deepest condolences to the families and friends who have lost their loved ones during the recent demonstrations.

"We are profoundly saddened by the loss of life and extend our heartfelt sympathies to all affected by these tragic events. We extend our sympathies to those maimed and injured during these processions."

He commended police officers who exercised absolute professionalism and restraint in the face of extreme personal provocation.

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