National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula/FILE National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has underscored the need for equal regard for all Kenyans regardless of their region, in the wake of public outrage over police conduct.
He was responding to Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo, who had expressed strong concern over the police shooting of a protester during Tuesday’s protests in Nairobi CBD.
"It matters not where a Kenyan comes from. The pain of a Kenyan in Mandera, in Busia, in Homa Bay, in Kwale, is a pain to all of you, And that is as it should be," he said.
According to speaker, leaders should rise above ethnic lines when addressing matters of public interest.
During the protests, police officer shot a man at close range.
Initial reports had claimed the victim who is currently receiving treatment was a resident of Homa Bay, drawing a strong reaction from the MP and other leaders from the region.
“Mr. Speaker, when I was coming here I was informed that the person who was shot has not died, and I am happy for that, although I am still not happy with the way police operated,” Odhiambo said.
“It doesn't matter where he comes from, but of course it hits me more if he is from Suba. I was told yesterday he is from Homa Bay and Suba is in Homa Bay. I wish to tell the people of Suba he was not from Suba, but we are still not happy.”
Odhiambo had further decried separate incidents involving two suspects who reportedly died by suicide while in police custody in her county.
She emphasised the need for greater parliamentary oversight on security operations.
“We are the ones who do oversight. This House must be seized of these matters,” she said.
Speaker Wetang’ula has directed Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to appear before the House next Wednesday to respond to lawmakers’ concerns.
He urged MPs to submit their questions in advance for the CS to address thoroughly.
The Speaker's directive comes amid growing national unease over police brutality and alleged human rights violations.
