Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has affirmed that the government will not back down on charging individuals involved in violent demonstrations with terrorism-related offences.
Speaking in Eldoret during the launch of the Jukwaa La Usalama forum, Murkomen criticized the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) for what he termed as siding with perpetrators of chaos instead of victims who have suffered huge losses.
“The Prevention of Terrorism Act is very clear. Acts such as orchestrating violence, destroying property, endangering lives, using explosives, and interfering with essential services amount to terrorism,” he said.
The CS questioned why those behind recent unrest, which saw petrol bombs thrown at courts and other vital infrastructure, should be treated differently.
Murkomen’s remarks came after LSK condemned the government’s decision to charge some protesters under anti-terror laws. He warned courts against giving lenient bail terms, stressing that Kenyans deserve protection from lawlessness.
“I watched the LSK President on TV acting like a judge, dismissing the evidence presented in court. Determining the strength of evidence is the role of the judiciary, not hers,” Murkomen argued.
He urged LSK President Faith Odhiambo to support the rule of law, stating: “She can either defend suspects in court or stand with Kenyans who have lost property during violent protests.”
The CS expressed disappointment that the legal fraternity and the Opposition have not backed the government’s efforts to ensure peaceful demonstrations in future.
Murkomen also reminded critics that the Prevention of Terrorism Act was passed under the watch of former Public Service CS Justin Muturi when he served as National Assembly Speaker, urging leaders to advise protest sponsors accordingly.
