National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula speaking during the Mama Mboga Empowerment Forum held at Lukusi Primary School in Webuye East on June 27, 2025. /MOSES WETANG'ULA/X
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has criticised sections of the clergy and foreign envoys for their silence on the violence, looting, and destruction witnessed during Wednesday’s Gen Z-led protests.
Speaking during the Likuyani Women Empowerment Programme at Matunda Comprehensive School, Wetang’ula questioned why religious leaders and members of the diplomatic corps had not spoken out in the wake of what he described as criminal acts that marred the demonstrations.
Wetang’ula said the clergy should speak out on whether the scenes witnessed on Wednesday — including destruction and death — were justifiable.
“I also want to hear from the envoys whether the aftermath of the Wednesday protests, the destruction, the mayhem and deaths is what they desire,” he said.
The Speaker said it was deeply troubling that some clergy and diplomats, who had previously voiced support for the Gen Z movement, had gone silent following the chaos that erupted 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 further noted that in countries such as the United States — from which many of the envoys hail — violent protesters are swiftly prosecuted, often without diplomatic controversy.
Wetang’ula urged both the diplomatic community and religious leaders to adopt a balanced stance and condemn any unlawful conduct, warning that silence on such issues undermines national peace and security.
He echoed calls by fellow leaders for security agencies to expedite investigations into the protests and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.
“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 public rebuke, the speaker also criticised former Chief Justice David Maraga for participating in the protests, saying his presence at the Gen Z demonstrations 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 avoid actions 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 also revealed that he had instructed security agencies to act swiftly in investigating the unrest, which left a trail of destruction, injuries, loss of life, and troubling reports of sexual assault against women by criminal elements.
“Justice must be served swiftly and firmly,” he asserted.
