Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has added his voice to the condemnation of last week’s violent protests, calling for urgent action against those behind the chaos.
Duale, who joins a growing list of government leaders in denouncing the unrest, urged security agencies and the justice system to move swiftly and decisively.
“The perpetrators must face the full force of the law. The red line of our Constitution was crossed, and there must be accountability,” he said.
According to the CS, the acts of looting, destruction, and lawlessness witnessed during the protests grossly violated the Constitution and must not go unpunished.
"What was billed as a peaceful protest ended up becoming a dark day for our country," he stated citing the lawlessness that marred the day.
"We witnessed shocking scenes of looting, attacks on public buildings, and gross violations of property rights."
Duale emphasised that while the Constitution under Article 37 grants every Kenyan the right to demonstrate, this freedom must be exercised peacefully and unarmed.
He condemned those who used the protests as a cover to engage in criminal acts, including looting, vandalism, and even reported cases of sexual violence.
"One cannot hide behind the right to demonstrate while raping our women, destroying businesses, and threatening the lives and property of hardworking Kenyans," he said.
"That is not a right, it is a crime."
He also criticised those using the protests to challenge the legitimacy of a constitutionally elected government, terming such moves as unconstitutional and unacceptable.
Reaffirming the supremacy of the Constitution, the CS cautioned against what he termed as selfish political agendas hidden behind calls for protest.
"We are one nation, under God, and governed by law. Anyone acting otherwise must be held responsible."
President William Ruto has already instructed security bosses to ensure all those involved are held to account.
"I expect the Inspector General and all relevant security agencies to conduct immediate, thorough, and speedy investigations," he directed.
"The perpetrators must be identified, unmasked, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has also vowed that his ministry would not relent in apprehending the organisers and financiers of the protests.
He stated "Make no mistake, we will come for you."
He also promised to support all officers from recent threats posed by the public over police brutality.
