Kithure Kindiki Lists Number of People To Be Arrested.

Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki has warned that any leader who will be found culpable of organizing or instigating protests will have their security detail withdrawn.

According to CS Kindiki, the now unbecoming anti-government protests will not be condoned, terming them as unlawful and acts of “terrorism”.

Speaking during the opening of a police station in Kiserian on Thursday, Kindiki said that the government will apply no leniency on leaders who will be found breaching the law.

“Hao magaidi wa kisiasa tunawaweka katika kundi moja la ugaidi. That was nothing short of terrorism,” he said.

“Even government leaders must follow the law, if you break the law, whether you are in the opposition or government, we will deal with you,” he added.

“If you are a leader and you are organizing protests we shall prosecute you and shall not present you with armed security.”

The Interior boss further censured those faulting the security agencies for the chaos witnessed in anti-government protests, arguing that the protesters should instead be held responsible.

He urged police officers to not hesitate whenever they encounter the “criminals” during protests.

“Wanasema wenye kusahabisha hii shida ni polisi. Watu wakiibia watu sio polisi. Don’t joke with criminals. Deal with them firmly,” he said.

” But you must also respect peaceful protesters.”

Endless running battles between police and protesters were witnessed across the country for the better part of Wednesday’s protests, resulting in the deaths of nine people, including four in Mlolongo, two in Kitengela, and one in Emali in Makueni County, as well as scores of injuries.

Clouds of smoke punctuated the atmosphere in many towns from bonfires lit by protesters and teargas canisters lobbed by the police.

The protests took place despite being pronounced illegal by the police for lack of notice.

However, Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga asserted that they will not relent in the fight against the government, calling on President William Ruto to give an ear to their demands lest the protests remain active.