The ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has condemned the violence witnessed during the June 25 protests, accusing unnamed individuals, some media outlets, and civil society groups of inciting unrest under the cover of promoting human rights.
In a statement released Thursday by Secretary-General Senator Hassan Omar, the party said while it supports the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, the recent demonstrations crossed the line into lawlessness.
“The Constitution protects the right to protest peacefully, but that right cannot be used to justify destruction, looting, or violence,” the statement read.
UDA said the violent scenes seen across the country — including the torching of buildings, looting of shops, and reported cases of sexual assault — marked one of the darkest moments in Kenya’s recent protest history.
“This cannot and will not be tolerated under the veil of human rights activism or Gen Z-led agitation,” said Omar.
The party claimed that the chaos was not spontaneous, but rather the result of sustained incitement by certain individuals and sections of the mainstream media, whom it accused of pushing divisive narratives to weaken the government.
UDA linked the unrest to a wider campaign by unnamed political elites and their media allies aimed at sabotaging President William Ruto’s reform agenda and efforts to promote inclusive development.
“The Kenya Kwanza administration is committed to correcting historical injustices and ensuring all regions benefit from government services. That is not up for debate. It is the reality of our broad-based leadership,” Omar added.
The party also expressed support for the ongoing cooperation between President Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga, calling it a national project aimed at healing divisions and correcting long-standing marginalization.
UDA accused certain media owners, whom it claimed were opposed to Ruto’s presidential bid, of continuing to portray the government negatively and misleading the public.
On the role of the police during the protests, UDA defended the security forces, praising them for showing restraint despite provocation.
“We commend our officers for acting with professionalism and protecting lives and property under very difficult circumstances,” the statement read.
The party acknowledged reports that several police officers were injured in the chaos and extended solidarity to them and other victims affected by the unrest.
UDA concluded by vowing that those behind the violence — whether planners or financiers — will face justice.
“Everything possible will be done to ensure the rule of law prevails. The organizers and funders of this violence must be held accountable,” the party said.
Email your news TIPS to Editor@Kahawatungu.com — this is our only official communication channel
