United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Hassan Omar has strongly condemned the violence and destruction of property witnessed during protests linked to the ongoing nationwide matatu strike. As the strike entered its second day on Tuesday, Omar questioned why some demonstrators chose vandalism and chaos over their right to peaceful protest.
The UDA spokesperson threw his weight behind Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who recently issued a stern warning to individuals torching vehicles, destroying public infrastructure, and attacking businesses across the country.
“We are happy with the warning by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen. Murkomen has warned those setting ablaze vehicles and those destroying properties,” Hassan said.
The UDA official voiced deep concern over the mounting destruction during protests against rising fuel prices and the high cost of living, questioning why demonstrators are targeting the private property and public infrastructure that ordinary citizens rely on every day.
“You are setting ablaze buildings. What have the owners done to you? You steal from commuters who have not wronged you,” he said.
“You are destroying roads and rail infrastructure that Kenyans worked so hard to build. What has President William Ruto done to you? What has made you so angry?” Hassan posed.
Hassan insisted that all demonstrations must remain peaceful and strictly within the law, sounding an alarm over the rising radicalization among some groups of protesters.
“The Constitution allows you to demonstrate peacefully, and also you have the right to vote. And that time will come next year, and you will know we have the numbers,” he said.
“What is going on? What kind of radicalization is this? What kind of barbarism?” he added.
Turning his attention to law enforcement, Hassan urged security agencies to take decisive action against anyone committing acts of violence and sabotage.
“Kipchumba, look for those people, arrest them, and charge them. Let the law take its course. This country cannot go on like this,” he said.
“A country is bigger than everybody, no matter your position,” Hassan added. He also dropped a strong hint that the state will crack down on cartels within the public transport sector as soon as President William Ruto returns to the country.
