The
Youth League of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), affiliated with
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has called for the immediate arrest
and prosecution of individuals allegedly responsible for hiring goons who
unleashed violence during recent protests in Nairobi.
In
a statement issued on Wednesday, the youth league condemned what they termed
as “sponsored violence” and acts of brutality against peaceful protesters
demanding justice for the murder of teacher and influencer Albert Ojwang.
"The
call for justice has been met with bullets and batons," said Wanjiku
Thiga, the National Youth Leader of the DCP.
“An innocent entrepreneur, Boniface Kariuki,
is currently in the ICU after being shot at close range. These acts amount to
attempted murder and must not go unpunished.”
The
group accused some political leaders of colluding with armed gangs to attack
demonstrators.
They
said the attackers were seen on video brutalising protesters under police
watch, and later celebrated the violence near a public office building.
“This
is no longer a political issue; it is a criminal offence,” the statement read.
“We
demand the arrest of those who hired and protected the goons, as well as police
officers who allowed or participated in the violence.”
Citing
Articles 33 and 37 of the Constitution, which protect freedom of expression and
the right to peaceful assembly, the youth league said the actions witnessed in
Nairobi were a direct violation of these rights.
They
demanded an independent investigation into the events, full compensation for
businesses affected, and accountability for all involved.
“We
will not forget. We will not be silenced,” said Thiga.
“Nairobi is bleeding, and those responsible
must face justice.”
