National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has moved to assure the international community that Kenya remains committed to upholding the rights of its citizens ahead of the anti-government protests slated for tomorrow in remembrance of the youth who lost their lives last year.
Wetang’ula made the remarks during a courtesy call with outgoing Acting US Ambassador Mark Dillard, who raised concerns about the country’s preparedness and the role of Parliament in handling the unfolding situation.
The speaker expressed hope that the protests would remain peaceful and reaffirmed the House’s willingness to address the concerns raised by demonstrators.
“This talk of a memorial for the last disturbances—if they are peaceful demonstrations, it shouldn’t be an issue, on the issues they have raised, Parliament is ready to address them, if it degenerates into violence, it is out of my hands and other agencies will handle that, but I hope it will be okay,” said Wetang’ula.
“We exchanged views on recent developments in the country, particularly the ongoing public demonstrations related to the Finance Bill. I assured him that the Parliament of Kenya remains committed to constitutionalism, the rule of law, and the safeguarding of democratic freedoms,” Wetang’ula shared after the meeting.
Wetang’ula emphasised that Kenya’s democracy had matured significantly and that institutions such as Parliament would continue to provide platforms for dialogue, expression, and representation of diverse views.
“Peaceful assembly is a right enshrined in our Constitution, and equally, the actions of law enforcement officers must be subject to legal and institutional oversight. Where excesses occur, accountability must follow.”
He further assured that Parliament was open to receiving petitions and engaging with stakeholders over the Finance Bill and other matters of national interest. “As a House that represents the people, we are always open to constructive engagement and deliberation on policies that affect the public,” he stated.
His remarks come after the United Kingdom, the United States, Britain, and Germany, among other foreign diplomats, issued a warning to their citizens over the planned demonstrations, citing potential risks.
In the statement signed by 12 foreign envoys released on Tuesday, the diplomats endorsed the upcoming protests, which will be held in remembrance of protesters who lost their lives during the anti-Finance bill protests in 2024.
Meanwhile, the Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary, Koriri Sing'Oei, also responded to the envoys, noting that despite Kenya welcoming their stance on local developments, the government could not allow the weaponisation of the protests.
“Democratic protest must be protected, but any weaponisation of protests to achieve extra-constitutional objectives must be met with strong condemnation. Kenya’s stability is paramount,” he noted.
