Wetang’ula faults clergy and diplomats for silence on protest violence

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has criticised sections of the clergy and foreign envoys for failing to condemn the violence, looting, and destruction witnessed during last week’s Gen Z-led protests.

Speaking during the Likuyani Women Empowerment Programme at Matunda Comprehensive School, Wetang’ula questioned the silence of religious leaders and members of the diplomatic corps in the wake of what he described as criminal acts that marred the demonstrations.

“Why are members of the clergy and the diplomatic corps silent in the face of violence, looting, property destruction, and sexual assault committed by criminals who infiltrated the Gen Z-led demonstrations, which were meant to commemorate lives lost during last year’s protests?” he posed.

The Speaker said it was deeply troubling that some clergy and foreign diplomats, who had been vocal in supporting the Gen Z movement, had not spoken out following the chaos in Nairobi and other parts of the country.

“It is deeply concerning that the same ambassadors and clergy who supported the demonstrations have now gone silent, especially after the protests turned violent and posed a serious threat to national peace and cohesion,” he said.

“Is this what they intended—widespread mayhem, destruction of property, looting, and the violation of women—when they insisted the government allow the demonstrations to proceed?”

He also pointed out that even in the United States, which many of the envoys represent, protestors involved in violence have faced swift prosecution, without any diplomatic controversy.

Wetang’ula urged both the diplomatic community and religious leaders to take a balanced stance and condemn unlawful conduct by any group, warning that failure to do so undermines national peace and security.

He echoed calls from fellow leaders for security agencies to expedite investigations into the protests and prosecute perpetrators.

“It is criminal for individuals masquerading as demonstrators to target and loot the property of hardworking Kenyan traders. Those found culpable must face the full force of the law,” he said.

In a rare rebuke, the Speaker also cautioned former Chief Justice David Maraga against participating in political demonstrations, saying his presence at the Gen Z protests in Nairobi was regrettable.

“As a professional colleague whom I greatly respect, I believe Justice Maraga should serve as a role model for our youth,” Wetang’ula said.

“His participation in protests that later degenerated into looting and lawlessness not only undermined his dignity but also sent the wrong message to a generation looking up to him for guidance and inspiration.”

He urged the retired Chief Justice to refrain from engaging in activities that could diminish the stature of the high office he once held.

“At a time when the country is grappling with instability, we must all act with restraint and responsibility—especially those of us who hold or have held positions of high public trust,” he added.

Wetang’ula revealed he had instructed security agencies to act swiftly in investigating the skirmishes, which left a trail of destruction, injuries, loss of life, and disturbing reports of sexual assault against women by criminal elements.

“Justice must be served swiftly and firmly,” he asserted.

The Speaker commended area MPs Hon. Innocent Mugabe and Martin Pepela for spearheading the two women empowerment forums in Likuyani and Webuye East, describing such initiatives as vital to strengthening the grassroots economy and supporting women entrepreneurs.

Governors Fernandes Barasa (Kakamega) and Kenneth Lusaka (Bungoma), Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, Majority Whip Hon. Silvanus Osoro, Bungoma Senator Wafula Wakoli, President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet, along with a host of MPs and MCAs, were also in attendance.

Governors Barasa and Lusaka joined other leaders in condemning the violence that gripped parts of the country.

“Bungoma town was affected by the riots that saw criminals break into premises and loot. These criminals must face the law,” said Governor Lusaka.

Sirisia MP John Waluke called for decisive action against leaders inciting the public against President Ruto’s administration.

“Enough is enough. The government has been too lenient with leaders who incite and abuse the President. As leaders, we must take a stand,” Waluke declared.

Senate Majority Leader Cheruiyot and Osoro alleged that the protests were part of a larger coup attempt and called for the arrest of those who planned and financed them.