In a recent turn of events, several leaders have voiced strong opposition to the deployment of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) against peaceful protesters in Nairobi. The controversial move has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for a change in approach from the government.
Kitui Senator Enock Wambua was among the prominent voices criticizing the deployment. He emphasized that the primary role of the KDF is to protect the nation’s borders from external threats, not to suppress internal protests. “It is disheartening to see our defence forces being used to counter protesters who are merely carrying placards and twigs,” Wambua said. He urged President William Ruto to keep the military in the barracks and engage in dialogue to address the underlying issues.
Wambua further stated, “Kenya is at a crossroads due to the poor leadership of the Kenya Kwanza government. As Azimio, we warned him about the governance approach, but he ignored us.” He pointed out that religious leaders, professional bodies, and ambassadors had also advised Ruto, but their concerns were dismissed. Now, the youth, unaffected by tribalism, political affiliations, or religious divisions, are expressing their dissatisfaction.
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko also spoke out, suggesting that Generation Z could be the key to overcoming the corruption within the Kenya Kwanza government. He criticized those advising President Ruto, accusing them of misleading him into imposing punitive taxes on an already burdened population. “Gen Z will be the end of conmanship in Kenya,” Sonko asserted. He also condemned the killing of demonstrators, warning that the responsible police officers could face charges at the International Criminal Court.
The leaders expressed their views at the Kamba customary wedding of Saada Kalonzo, daughter of Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, in Yatta, Machakos County.