National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Samburu West MP Naisula Lesuuda presiding over a fundraiser for the construction of St. Mark Longewan Catholic Church in the area/HANDOUTNational Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called for swift and firm action against individuals behind the violence and destruction witnessed during Wednesday’s Gen Z-led protests.
Speaking during a series of events in Samburu North and Samburu West constituencies, where he presided over church fundraisers, Wetang’ula said those who orchestrated and participated in acts of lawlessness must face the full force of the law.
“Everyone has a right to picket and present petitions to government agencies such as Parliament and demand for action on the issues they have,” Wetang’ula said.
“But there is no law that allows violent protests resulting in destruction of property, sexual assault, looting, assault on uniformed officers, and killing. We condemn such acts in the strongest terms.”
The speaker was particularly incensed by the assault of a female police officer during the protests, describing the incident as a disturbing sign of eroding humanity.
“We saw some demonstrators attack a female officer, beat her
up and step on her head. That policewoman is a fellow Kenyan—someone’s
daughter, sister, or mother. We must restore respect for life and dignity,” he
said.
While acknowledging rising political tensions ahead of the next general elections, Wetang’ula urged politicians to avoid stoking divisions and instead focus on policy and ideas.
“The opposition are not enemies. There’s simply a difference of opinion,” he said.
“No one has a right to any seat—power belongs to the people. I, too, hold this office because Members of Parliament elected me. Let every leader lead with humility, respect, and grace.”
Addressing criticism directed at President William Ruto and
the Kenya Kwanza administration over slow delivery of campaign promises,
Wetang’ula asked for patience, pointing to progress made in areas such as
agriculture.
“You are farmers—hasn’t the cost of fertiliser gone down? Let us give the President time. He’s not even been in office for three years. Judge him fairly, and more importantly, pray for him and the entire leadership,” he urged.
He called for peace and reconciliation, particularly in the
Rift Valley region, which has seen recurring inter-community tensions.
“Peace is not an option—it is a necessity,” he told the gathering. “Without peace, there can be no development. Let us walk together as one people, united in purpose.”
Wetang’ula’s comments come amid a tense national mood following the June 26 protests, which left at least 19 people dead and over 530 injured, according to human rights organisations.
